2. amps-preamps
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sleeper tube integrateds suggestion wanted

Hello
I'm looking for the cats meow of tube integrateds.

I need real power, and can't go SET, because I don't have the speakers for that right now,as much as I would like check that out.

I would like something easy to bias and sweet and detailed, great depth,dynamics and low level detail is a big plus too.

Are the Primaluna's just the flavor of the day? OR a real treat for the price.

Right now,I have a ASL 1003DT, with el34 SED's and some bugle boy 12ua7's and it pretty dang good. But I'm new to tubes and know there is most likley better stuff.

It took me awhile to find Accuphase, for the solid state gear I own,which I feel is a step ahead of the other solid state I've heard,so, in away I'm looking for the Accuphase of tube gear.

Oh,lastly, my budget is about 2 grand used, MAX.

I do have a Minimax pre, so power amp suggestions are on the table too. (I do like integrated amps though)

I'm looking for the beguiling tube magic. The ASL spews it out now and then. I need a tube avatar to guide me! hehe

All comments appreciated.

Thanks.
mcgarick
facten
2,889 posts
 
I have the Soundquest SQ 88 that Glenhifi refers to- it really is a sweet amp at a reasonable price - switched out the Chinese tubes, and using SED KT88s, & moderately priced Tungsol NOS 62sl7s and 6SN7s - plenty of power and good across the range
tobias
1,534 posts
 
Second the Audio Space Reference integrated. Really really good. Not likely to come up used since it's only just moved in. The Rogue Cronus integrated is nice but it won't give you much more than your present gear.
1967
44 posts
 
Have you listened and compared other amps that use 6550s kt88s etc? Typically they do things differently than the el34s you are used to. Of cousre the circut, transformers caps and input tubes have as much or more to do with the overall sound but all of my favorate amps are el-34 based, try to listen to differnet types and decide for yourself if possible.
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