Best value Set amp for under $1500 used is ok.
Looking to power some large horn speakers and replace my SS Audio Research upgraded LS10 power amp because it needs service and I am not ready to service this unit for a variety of reasons not worth discussing here.
Specs for the Viking Acoustics L’Instrument speakers
are:
Sensitivity: 98 db
Time Alignment: Drivers time-aligned mechanically and electrically.
Bandwidth: 18Hz - 19,000 (18Hz - 50kHz with optional super tweeter)
I have tried 845/805/KT88/120 in non set builds. I’d like to try a 300B or similar set design for these without burning the budget. I’m based in Australia and prefer to use 240V capable amps.
Your response is what I've seen from people who've actually heard or owned the Willsenton amplifiers. Vast majorities are impressed with their built quality and sound. Yes, it is Chinese, I would not be bias and hold that against it. There is a quality hierarchy with Chinese products as with any other nation. Charles |
The LS10 is a preamplifier. Are you looking for an integrated 300B amplifier? If so, the Willsenton R300 (mentioned) is the only one, price wise, that comes to mind. I have seen online pics of some models marked 220V/50Hz on the back. Here's a recent thread about an owner (R300) updating the coupling caps in one (nice internal pics). In the US I can have one delivered for $1500 with free shipping (Amazon), but I don't know about availability in Australia (I assume that I would be charged sales tax on the purchase).
DeKay |
Thanks to all who suggested the Willsenton and other suggestions. I will certainly do some more research. @dekay I couldn't edit the post to correct the LS10 reference. Actually the power amp is an ARC D240 MkII. I will read that post you've linked with interest, thanks. I've had a Prima Luna Dialogue Premium amp previously but not connected to these speakers, earlier I was using the Elac 247.2 and the combo was very good. If I consider budget only, 300B tube amps are hard to find and fit the bill. This push pull amp seems like good value: YAQIN MC-84L Class A Push Pull Tube Amplifier and there are others by Dared that are in the budget range. This is a Living Room system that is coming off a cheap Marantz 1509 AVR and using preouts to couple to the power amp. And the reason for that is the furniture that is impossible to find: furniture that has openings high enough and multi-level to fit pre/pro for example outside of IKEA or a dedicated hifi rack that costs a fortune for the length required. Living room speakers and media unit There are a small number of boutique amp builders here in Oz...outside the budget. |
I have a Willsenton R8 and can attest to its attributes. Great tube qualities of bloom and holographic sound staging, and surprisingly fast tight bass. Highly recommend. That said I imagine their 300B is glorious. I was a little hesitant to buy something that would have to ship back to China if/when it needs repair and really wish it was made in America, which is why I’m on the waitlist for a Decware 25th anniversary Zen. |
