2. amps-preamps
  3. 190682-7079

Recommend me a tube integrated amplifier

I'm at a point where I'd like to try a tube integrated amplifier.

I currently have a Luxman L-509x driving a pair of Audio Note AN-K/SPx SEs.

I use a Marantz SA-KI Ruby CD/SACD player and a Technics SL1200Mk2 and AT-33SA LOMC for sources.

I also use a Rythmik E15HP/PEQ3 subwoofer to fill in the bottom end.

I listen mostly to jazz, classic rock at low to mid-level volumes, and my budget would be around $4k-ish used or new.

So, I'd like to get some recommendations for an integrated that would pair well with the AN-Ks.  Subwoofer connection mandatory either pre-outs or compatible for speaker level connection.  Phono pre inputs for MC desired, but optional.

No hybrids, high power not needed. No headphones either.  A remote would be nice, but I could suffer without one.

TIA

erikt
dz13
241 posts
 

I suggest the Don Sach’s Valhalla integrated tube amp.

http://www.dsachsconsulting.com/valhalla%20integrated.html

Lynn Olson, whom I met at Pacific Audio Fest in 2023, told me that he thought that the Valhalla amp was as good as $15k tube amps. I haven’t heard a lot of tube amps but I’ve heard a Cary amp, an LTA amp and a Rogers amp and there is no contest in my mind. I’ve also heard other audiophiles’ systems and I don’t think any of them sound better. The Valhalla amp, even though it puts out 33 wpc seems capable of driving most speakers very well, even 4 ohm speakers. Plus it has a decent remote, auto biasing, a balanced input and an easy way to check the biasing of the power tubes.

leavontime
1 posts
 

The Cary SLI 100 is exceptional. Right at that price point. Made in the USA. Yes , I own it. TRUE bang for buck. Couldn’t be happier. Good luck on your search

leotis
182 posts
 

Had a PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium HP and it was pretty great especially with the high end tubes that you can't hardly get anymore.

Now I have a Linear Tube Audio Z40+ that is incredibly wonderful (especially with the high end tubes that you can't hardly find anymore)

Gutenberg says it's the best integrated he has ever reviewed, so there's that.

Used might not be that far out of your price range.

pcrhkr's avatar
pcrhkr
276 posts
 

https://www.primaluna.nl/

I love mine. Stout power supply, great amp protection. 

 

richdirector's avatar
richdirector
269 posts
 

Luxman hard to top 

 

I have a Luxman 550ax2 the baby 20w class an into my tannoy Arden beasts. 
 

only one I would consider is a allnic t2000 30th anniversary one ( the T-2000 30th Anniversary provides 120 watts per channel of push-pull, pentode power or more than 60 watts SET sounding watts in triode mode;…..)

https://allnicaudio.com/product/t-2000-30th/

 

icon audio is good bet but this is like that in Luxman attention to detail style 

 

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