When were the best tube amps made?


And what were they?

1980's Audio Research need not apply. 

erik_squires

I recently purchased a Roma el34 push pull as my first tube amp. I’m on the Decware list and purchased the Roma as a temporary amp. I owned a ss Rotel amp and preamp, Velodyne sub and used both AR10’s and B&W speakers for 25 years. Had the Roma going through some Zu Audio Soul Sipremes and it sounded great. Speakers induced ear fatigue so I’ve since gone to Audio Note e/lx’s. I couldn’t wait for Decware so I purchased an Aric Audio Custom 300b PSET amp. Hand made, point to point, hand made transformer which is a completely separate 60lbs unit, host of upgrades and no circuit boards. It can’t even be compared to what I used to listen to, and I loved those old AR speakers. Not saying there wasn’t great stuff back in the day, just thAt there’s great stuff being made now. All my vintage listening friends, old amps and speakers of good to very good quality, are really impressed with the sound. So good news. There’s great sound to be had today if you’re willing and able to be patient and spend a few bucks. 
Also, having read a ton on tubes the last 6 months, I came across an interesting article on the Western Electrics if I’m not mistaken. They newer owner was able to procure the original metal supply used in the old tubes. The process and significance is explained in the article. Very interesting. 

Every time has good, bad, mediocre.

 

@erik_squires Funny you mentioned AR from 80's. AR fans will hate me for this, but AR SP9 MkIII  has remained one the WORST sounding components I ever purchased, very bad memories of that one. Hybrid design didn't work for me, SP10 would have been much better choice. This purchase probably around 1984-5.