2. amps-preamps
  3. 1290387627

Golden Tube Audio SE-40

I've been picking through the offerings of an estate sale and came across a Golden Tube Audio SE-40 power amp. I can't give it a listen as it's missing a rectifier tube and don't know if I even want to bother with the amp at all.
From what I've read so far, the amp has been known more for reliability issues than good sound. I presently use an Aragon 2004 and a Forte 44 and am wondering if this Golden Tube Amp is worthwhile.
Other pieces I have picked up from the estate are a Dynaco ST70 and a Sound Valves VTP-101 preamp, which I think are keepers.
Any opinions/experience/advice regarding Golden Tube Audio would be appreciated.
heyraz
br3098
994 posts
 
The SE-40 is a good, very under-rated amp IMHO. It's got a very sweet sound, but can be a little lacking in the lower range if not paired to the right speakers.

I have two and there have been no reliability issues (so far). The guy who moderates the Yahoo group is Loc Vu, and he is the goto guru for all things GTA. He can help you with advise, parts and upgrade kits.

If it's too much like work just send the amp to me. I'll make sure that it gets disposed of properly. I'll donate it to the... Nuns. Yeah, that's right. I'll donate it to Sisters of Charitable Audio.
ckoffend
684 posts
 
I owned two of these amps. One had a small problem. I had it repaired/upgrade at a very reasonable price. These are good amps and if you are picking it up on the cheap, I would definately consider it.
bighead63
53 posts
 
The group on Yahoo is very helpful. These can be good amps to use and yes the GTA name did have a bad rep for holding up. I had a SEP-1 which worked great and I picked it up on the cheap. Matches well with the tube amps, and a very simple design.

Unless they are asking a lot of the amp it could be a fun little project to work on it if you don't mind doing that, yet if its going to be too much trouble I'm sure you could find a buyer for it if it didn't fit your needs.
heyraz OP
177 posts
 
What do you think it's worth? How much should I offer?
triode
263 posts
 
Very good sounding amp for the money, big hearted...but with a well-deserved rep for unreliability.
More to discover