Tube Integrated Amp Recommendation


I am looking for a tube integrated amp that has lots of tube flavor (can't find a better word).  I don't care for more modern tube amps that start to sound a lot like solid state.  I need at least 25 watts, and my budget is $4K.  Right now, I am thinking that Unison Research Triode 25 may be a good choice.  I know that some vintage amps may work well; however, I don't have the time right now to pursue any restoration or maintenance needed to make them sound their best and keep them reliable. Any suggestions you may have are very much appreciated.

gotog

I wanted a modern tube amp (remote volume) that sounded as good as my Fisher 80az mono blocks. amp or integrated (keeps options open).

I took a chance on a used Cayin A88T, usa 120v. Love it. based on very positive 6moons review. (6 moons site is not loading at the moment)

preamp section: 6sl7 and 6sn7 tubes, other models use more traditional 12...x. These 6's sound terrific.

triode mode: 22wpc; alternate ultra-linear mode 45 wpc.

all my sources go thru my vintage tube preamp, thus tube to tube sound: but occasionally I hook up something directly to the Cayin.

It sounds great, Love it. it came with 6550’s, I changed to KT88’s, prefer them.

I see some out there now new and or used, but they are 220v. 110v come up on hifishark/ebay/reverb ... randomly.

this shows it well, perhaps they can sell you a 120v version

https://www.hifi-amplifiers.com/en/cayin-tube-amp-hifi-integrated-amplifier-c-103/cayin-a88t-mk2-tube-kt8865504-integrated-amplifier-audiophile-power-amp-class-ab-pushpull-amplifier-p-1854.html?currency=USD&gclid=Cj0KCQiAqsitBhDlARIsAGMR1Rj-Ok6epLqmZeSNjwMq4OX9K-N5DT7ViSxuITLPeIYoLkhbSyEWgWgaAh8GEALw_wcB

 

MK2 has desireable external bias meter. (mine is MK1, internal bias, pita)

Built like a brick, Innards, all hand wired, very impressive.

 

I would highly recommend a used Audio Research I-50. Great musicality, warmth, and detail. If I had an excuse to put together another system I would buy one. An exceptional deal even new.

A lot of people like Cary amps for the sound characteristics you’re looking for.  Best of luck.

Thanks for some great suggestions that were not on my radar..

I realize that there are plenty of previous threads that focus on tube amp recommendations, but I am specifically looking for that lush, liquid mid-range.. I do not care as much about dynamics, hyper-detail, or even strong bass… thanks again…