2. amps-preamps
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Old tube amp?

What tube amps from the past are worth looking at. I decided to give tubes another try and want to try an older design that will not break the bank. Keeping in mind inexpensive retube, don't want to spend too much when tubes need replacing. Speakers: merlin. Pre-amp: simaudio p-5. Present amp is w-5, and it isn't going anywhere as far as I can see. My system is completely acceptable, just want to have some fun experimenting. Had used a CJ premier four in the past, but my source is much improved and cannot say how sim's w-5 compares to cj's four.
Would like to keep it under $1000.
pedrillo
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
dynaco...still a contender
yioryos's avatar
yioryos
723 posts
 
Conrad Johnson MV-55 using the EL-34 power tubes.
celtic66
1,656 posts
 
Dynaco. There are always several completely restored and modified ST-70s for sale at very reasonable prices. Absolutely killer amps with these upgrades and for $700-900 a steal.
tiger
313 posts
 
Go for a used cayin, 88 or 70. You will be pleased and the bank account intact.
rodman99999
6,132 posts
 
Go for the Dynaco ST-70, and you can convert to monoblocks later(if the fancy strikes you). Then again: You could start with Mark II, III or IVs to begin with. WHATEVER you do: Buy stuff that hasn't already been modded. There are a bunch of audio butchers out there!! You may find yourself in the position of a doctor trying to undo an abortion. Here are a few sites that offer excellent upgrades: (http://www.curcioaudio.com/) (http://www.triodeel.com/dynaco.html) (http://store.triodestore.com/dynacoupgrades.html)If you don't want to get that radical with the upgrades right away: Just beef up the power supply, replace all the caps and resistors in the signal path, the power cord, input RCAs and output terminals(not hard, or expensive at all), and enjoy the music like that. Dynaco parts, data and knowledgable modders are always available,(and always will be)because there are so many and they are so popular. There are even brand new kits out there that enable you to build one yourself. Mo stuff: (http://www.zeemash.com/cgi-bin/search.py?keyword=Dynaco%20St%2070)
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