vintage tuners


Since my interest is growing in vintage integrateds I have had the opertunity to listen to their tuners. I am finding that they are actually quite good. So that leads me inot my next curiosity.

Now that we are this supposedly better quality digital age. I know the radio stations are beginning to launch digital signals. So wont these analog tuners become extinct? Anyone know how much time we have? I'm assuming it is around 2009 when the TV networks are forced to broadcast in only digital signal.
kt_88
Older McIntosh was considered the creme de la creme in it's last tube configuration befopre the tuners became solid state.Do a search for official Mac site and think there is a link to a site maintained by one of the previous employees with all the vintage stuff but their was one model that collectors coveted most that could be got for $1500-$2K.Other than a broadcast standard $5500 Magnum Dynalab some think it's the best ever made.Sorry I can't remember the model number but ask arround and Mac fans will know.Also have seen big market in old Fishers being re-built lately.Know that the cable company Mappleshade is selling them but you could get beter deal I am sure rolling your own.
Chazzbo
FM will die when vinyl does. If your can afford it, check out the Marantz 10B.

jh
I had been in the 'vintage'' tuners for the past 10 years. Owned many ''classics'' (the usual prospects from Kenwood, Sansui and the like, from $ 75.00 to over $ 600.00 ).

Lately, I came across this little unassuming tuner from Cayin, the 220i, and was given a lesson in all the detail I had been missing. Here's my take on it:

If you go with a tube amp (like me), you will get all the creamy butterscotch you need sound-wise with a modern tuner.

Once I let this slim little Cayin bugger warm-up, I gave it a listen, I switched stations VIA THE REMOTE CONTROL, until I found a terrific tune. The soundstage was huge, and I heard detail I never hear from ANY of my vintage tuners (one of which I purchased at a high price and was perfectly aligned) I told myself '' good enough for me, no way I'm going back to vintage tuners, game over''.