What's the best EL34 amp besides 8b?

Another one to look at would be the "Decware Zen Torii MK4". Good Luck with your search, Tish

Funny thing about the ST-70. Although it has a modest pedigree, it totally gave its competition a harsh run for the money- on paper it kept up with the Marantz 8B pretty easily. Its biggest weakness is actually its rectifier- it uses a single 5AR4 and should have had two.

There is an excellent thread about the amplifier on audiokarma:

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=578485

If this amplifier is properly rebuilt it is a solid performer. New filter capacitors are available from Antique Radio Supply in Arizona.

I'll build you an 8B if you want one.

Happy Listening.

Shindo Montrachet

The ugly old Altec 1568B 40 watt monoblock is an incredibly fine amplifier by virtue of it's Peerless output transformers which are considered among the finest ever put in an amplifier. The power supply is somewhat primitive and could use some simple upgrades but it will be as satisfying to listen to as any overpriced vintage Marantz. I modded a pair which I used for five years until I was seduced by a Citation II - again, those superb transformers!

Also consider the VTL ST85. Google. Many good reports all over the WWW.