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
fsgattuso
28 posts
 

Prima Luna has some highly recommended and reviewed tube amps including their integrateds. I am very happy with their Dialougue Premium HP,  which is now the Evo 400 I think. I run it into Ohm Walsh 2000s and a Rythmik F12G from the preout. 

scottya118
164 posts
 

Luxman SQ-N150

agbrace
41 posts
 

BAT VK-80i is an excellent sounding unit, 55 WPC, built like a tank, beautiful work of art. 

wanganui
10 posts
 

Tomcat Audio.  The guy builds them himself, PTP.  They sound so great that I immediately sold all my nice PS Audio stuff.

fleschler
2,015 posts
 

 

@freediver I have not used integrated amps since my 1973 Yamaha CA 1000 which had 10 watts Class A switch (sounded great on chamber music).  If I were to get an integrated amp, I would probably prefer a Class A power type as I have been a life long tube user and currently switched to equivalent quality Westminster Labs REI Class A solid state monoblocks (50 years later).  I've heard very nice tube integrateds at shows.  My distributor/dealer sells the 8 different Trafomatic brand tube integrateds which I heard two models (SET & 100 watt push/pull) that sounded quite nice with modern tubes (not like Audio Note with really NOS non-manufactured tubes).  

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