+1 on Lab12 and Audio Hungary Qualiton, have heard both manufacturers' top integrateds (and some of their separates), excellent price/value ratio. I own a Qualiton C200 preamp which I just recently purchased for a second system, big bold soulful sound is how I'd generally characterize these manufacturers' sonic signatures. Agree however that it isn't clear what exactly the warranty repair service is like IN REALITY in North America.
Integrated suggestions
Hi all, for personal reasons I need to sell my $17k tube integrated & would have to replace it with something much cheaper - around $4k, maybe $5k...
I only mention the price of my current amp so you're familiar with the level of performance to which I am accustomed.
It would need to have at least one balanced input, line only is fine, at least 30W PC, any class is OK as long as it offers exceptional performance for its price point! Tube or SS. Capability to run 4ohm speakers.
Any suggestions...?
I know there are many but you guys may suggest something I may not consider.
Thanks.
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- 60 posts total
I really feel like ModWright is often overlooked. Their current model pre is out of your price range, even used, but there's one of their older for sale on the other site. I've been. Extremely happy with my LS100 preamp from them. Truly boutique product, excellent build quality, and more than any of that, sounds amazing. https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649960251-modwright-kwi-200-with-warranty-until-may-15th-2023/ |
I (and a few other A'goners) have been quite happy with the (Polish) Circle Labs A200. It is a hybrid amp, but the two Siemens ECC8100 tubes last for ~10 years with normal usage, and require no biasing. You can read users' impressions here: Also, a small note on the GATO Amp-150, which was recommended above. I owned one for a couple of years, and found it to be excellent. However, it features an active cooling system (i.e. a small fan), and while it was rarely needed, I did not like the added noise. |
- 60 posts total