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Need A 10-30 watt Tube Power Amp, Lower Heat Output, Which Sounds Great, Under $1500 Used

I am in need of a mid-spring to mid-autumn power amp. This is for my office system that gets a LOT of use and is therefore very important, in terms of sound quality. I have been using a great SET amp, but the 845's it's based around simply heat up the smaller room space too much during warmer weather, even when running central air. I've been in the tube audio game a long time, though, and know there are amps with designs and tubes that run far cooler and wouldn't present the room heating issues. 

I pondered something solid state, but there simply isn't much in the power range, which is also within my price range. Also, I would want an amp with at least some tube-like sound qualities, which makes it even more difficult. In a perfect world, something like a First Watt F7 would be ideal, but its twice my budget, used. 

10 watts would do it, but anything up to 50, or so would be fine, of course. It will be powering Omega, single driver speakers of 94.5 sensitivity and be paired with a Zesto Leto preamp. 

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! 

nightfall
iopscrl
196 posts
 

Your situation and stated preference seems to be perfect match for an EL84/7189 based amplifier.  10--20wpc, small footprint and does not generate a lot heat.  I sympathize with your situation.  I use a Triode TRV845 PSE / 845 SET amp.  I can literally see waves of heat coming from the amp during warmer months !

I would look for a vintage restored amplifier.  Dynaco ST35 is a well regarded model. Also Eico HF14 pr, HF86 stereo. Fisher 20a or 30a pr, or SA100 stereo.  Heathkit UA 1/2 pr or AA111 stereo.  Make sure the amps are rebuilt from top to bottom using new close tolerance components.  

If you prefer new, look for a Luxman or Leben amp / both companies offer EL84 based designs that sound wonderful.

If EL84 amps are not appealing then there is a whole world of choices using 6L6GC/KT66 or EL34 tubes.   More power, but slightly more heat....however not as much as your 845 SET.   The venerable ST70 dissipates a lot of heat in stock/rebuilt condition !   I would consider a new version or an original with new PS and audio circuits that run much cooler.

A slightly more expensive option would be a McIntosh MC225.  This amplifier uses a quad of 7591 tubes for a about 25-30wpc of sublime sound.  However cost may be higher than your budget.

Good to have choices !

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,507 posts
 

Quicksilver Mini-Mono or Mid-Mono. I personally think they are the finest amps I ever owned.

firberger's avatar
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firberger
104 posts
 

Agreed a Will Vincent , Bob Latino or Van Alstine would do the trick for your budget and have a long life . 300B's are also great but consider the cost of replacing the tubes if you are playing in your office 8 hours 5 days a week .

I had a Van Alstine ST-70 and a Wellborne 300B in my office for a while and decided that cost and heat are my enemies and went with SS Amp and Tube Pre.

Still have the two since they are keepers IMO and use elsewhere.

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