Primaluna Dialog Two Integrated Amp vs Cayin A-88T

The Chinese Bada hybrid SE triode tube headphone amp has sound to die for. I know. I have one.

Cheers

For the record, PrimaLuna is a Dutch company, though the product is made in China. The US distributor is Kevin Deal, who is in LA. Their customer service is excellent. I have had a Dialouge 2 for a few years now and have been very happy with it. Have not had a Cayin in my own system, but my uncle, who has a very similar system to mine, did not like the Cayin he tried - it was much brighter, he said.

Or you could buy a new Rogue Cronus Magnum with KT120's and 90W power. Plus it is made in America.

A used Cary SLI 80 would be another alternative that is made in America.

Buconero, have you stayed with the KT-88's that came with your Cayin or have you experimented with el34's?

Learsfool, I guess same question for you.

Thanks.

Ericsh, this is not exactly on point, but I do have a Primaluna Prologue One and a Cayin T100, close to your request but no cigar.

So FWIW, I use the One with EL34's (in preference to a Prologue Three & Five combo, which I also own, with KT88's - the One has a slightly warmer balance and concurrently less definition than the 3/5).

The Cayin T100 with stock tubes was cool in tone, you could call it bright but I think the problem was not in the highs, more an absence in the lower mids/upper bass. I changed out ALL of the stock tubes! With those changes I now have speed, resolution, and some warmth. I highly prefer the Cayin as presently tubed. I went thru a raft of tubes with the PL and I'm presently using stock (EH) small tubes and SED EL34's.

My stereo is on all day so I use the PL when I'm not sitting in the sweat spot - its a lot cheaper, and frankly not that bad.

Both units have been in the house over 4 years and there have been no reliability issues. I did have some with the 3/5 and found the dealer/distributor flawless in providing fast and effective service.

Hope that helps a bit.