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Thread: Tube Integrated Help
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January 19, 2018, 11:09 AM #1
Tube Integrated Help
Hello All!
I am looking to jump back into the game with a very small and very budget-oriented setup in my bedroom. I am looking for a tube integrated that produces sound that is typical of valves (warm, organic, etc.) but won't come close to breaking the bank - does that exist (check out my budget below)?
A few items I am hoping to stick to:
- Under $1,000
- Headphone jack (not a deal-breaker, though)
- Smaller footprint (hoping to put this on/near my nightstand)
- Open to used equipment
A few things to keep in mind - I am hoping I can stay this cheap as it won't take much to improve what I am using now, which is an Amazon Echo to listen to music and podcasts at night. I figure a low powered integrated will be more than adequate to power some efficient bookshelves. I have been souring the boards here and the rest of the interwebs to get as educated as I can on (budget) tube amps. Here are a few that I have come across so far:
- Icon Audio MP 3 (From an UK-based company that sells on Music Direct; I don't know if they offer this model in the US so I might be out of luck)
- Jolida 1102/3502 (I read how Joe loved his 3502 before letting that go to his brother. Obviously, this hits above my budget)
- Icon 20 PP
Please let me know what additional info will help you help me. All advice is appreciated; thanks in advance!Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 19, 2018, 11:47 AM #2
Re: Tube Integrated Help
PS Audio Sprout seems to get a lot of nice comments in the reviews
And the NAD 3020
Arcam A19
A tad over $1000 the Rogue Sphinx
What speakers you using2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)
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January 19, 2018, 12:05 PM #3DSkipGuest
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Jolida is about as nice as it gets for a tube integrated under $1,000. However, IF you can find a used one OR up your budget to $1,500, the iFi Stereo 50 is an incredible value and unmatched in the $1,500 and under price category. For your application, it sounds perfect. I sold mine about a year ago and have regretted it since.
If you want to try something that doesn't have the glow but gives the sound of an entry-level tube integrated, check out the Dayens Ampino. An upgraded unit with Mundorf caps runs $672 new. I recommend this unit to most anyone who is looking for tube integrateds under the four figure mark.
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January 19, 2018, 01:36 PM #4
Re: Tube Integrated Help
So I would pull my cheap but decent HT surrounds for interim use - AAD M series bookshelf.
For down the road, I was looking at things like the Klipsch RP 150/160 and Martin Logan LX16. Again, primary restriction being keeping the budget down. I am open to suggestions for these, though, too.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkSean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 19, 2018, 01:41 PM #5
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January 19, 2018, 04:10 PM #6
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
I know there's a Van Alstine Ultra Valve integrated used for $1100.00. I'm not sure what the going price is used on those normally. You can check hifishark
Just another option and Frank still answers the phone if you need support.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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January 20, 2018, 09:52 AM #7
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 20, 2018, 07:44 PM #8
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Hi Sean,
It’s great to see you again. There’s some good choices here.Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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January 20, 2018, 08:42 PM #9
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
The Ultra Valve is not an integrated amp. It requires a preamp. I agree about the Jolida. People seem to like them.
Here are a couple of used options-
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tu...7-70f8ef6653f5
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tu...20-integratedsMy Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.
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January 20, 2018, 11:01 PM #10
- Join Date
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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January 20, 2018, 11:33 PM #11
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January 20, 2018, 11:35 PM #12
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January 20, 2018, 11:36 PM #13
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 20, 2018, 11:41 PM #14
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Thanks! I'd love to say I'm done but you never know with me
I absolutely loved my Jolida and so did my brother. He had to have it and took it home. I finally got the money out of him. Thank goodness.
If you are a headphone guy, my Linear Tube Audio MZ2 is insane. You can start small for about 1100-1200 but unless you have little super efficient speakers, it may not cut it.
Sent from my SM-N910P using TapatalkFleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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January 21, 2018, 09:18 AM #15
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean, for music and podcasts, you might also consider the Dynaudio Music 7.
Looks good and produces very decent sound.
Just under 1K here.
https://www.dynaudio.com/home-audio/music/music-7
I know it's not a tube thingie (which I love by the way!), but it has a high wife acceptance factor and streams and has speakers on board (40 Hz - 20 kHz).
What more do you need in a bedroom?!Vivid Audio - Burmester - Hegel - Marantz - Oppo - Pioneer 60" - Wireworld
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January 21, 2018, 02:47 PM #16
Re: Tube Integrated Help
saw this on tubedepot.com and thought i would pass it along just in case... very budget friendly and small footprint for the nightstand.
http://www.tubedepot.com/products/tu...tube-amplifier
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January 21, 2018, 08:16 PM #17
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 21, 2018, 08:20 PM #18
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Thanks for a super practical solution to my difficult ask. Bluetooth speakers are so simple and produce good enough sound for various tasks, especially streaming; they’re hard to ignore. I just think I won’t be happy unless I go the tube route...so I guess I’ll have to open up my budget to be able to check all the right boxes.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkSean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 21, 2018, 08:21 PM #19
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January 21, 2018, 10:06 PM #20
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean,
I second Skip’s endorsement for the iFi Retro 50. The Swiss Army Knife of tube amps. I picked mine up on AudioKarma for around 1/2 off retail. I also have a Melody SP3 which cranks out around 40 wpc of pure tube goodness. You should be able to find a nice one for under $700. Happy hunting.
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January 21, 2018, 11:39 PM #21
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- Minnesota
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
If you are going to increase your budget, then you may want to consider a used Primaluna Integrated.
My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.
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January 22, 2018, 09:03 AM #22
- Join Date
- Jan 2018
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- 3
Re: Tube Integrated Help
... Sure - there's alot out there in the vintage/used market - BUT I recently took a chance and shelled out $150 for a new Monoprice integrated amp and am pleasantly surprised with it. It easily powers my JBL L-25 Prima speakers (a previous vintage find), and appears to respond well (meaning jumps in sound quality) to different interconnects (presently Harmonic Tech Pro-Silway MK lll I got as pat of another deal) and power cords (presently using a 2 meter used PS Audio X-Stream Statement SC I purchased for $175). So I skinned the cat by maximizing the machine with vintage speakers and quality ancillaries...
I'd suggest you put your money into music - try the Monoprice amp for 30 days and realize it's most times the music not the equipment that brings you joy and makes you smile.
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January 22, 2018, 09:24 AM #23
Re: Tube Integrated Help
This is a tad above your price point, but a killer little hand made amp by Steve Monte of Quest for Sound for $1350
http://www.questforsound.com/amps/amps_sq84-V2.htm
-----------------
Brian
Main System - Rotel RCD-1572 / Rega P3 > Luxman 505UX Mark II > Fyne Audio F502SPs > Synergistic Cables
Secondary - OPPO 93 > VAC CLA 1 MKII Pre > Odyssey Stratos > Dynaudio Audience 82s > Tara Labs Cables
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January 22, 2018, 10:11 AM #24
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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January 22, 2018, 02:49 PM #25
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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January 22, 2018, 03:37 PM #26
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February 2, 2018, 12:20 AM #27
Tube Integrated Help
Thanks for all the suggestions. I think I’ll just kill my budget and do a McIntosh MA-252.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkSean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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February 2, 2018, 03:01 AM #28
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Excellent choice.Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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February 3, 2018, 06:47 PM #29
Tube Integrated Help
I think so, too, Joe. Mac, after all, was what got me into Audio in the first place.
Now, which cables (SC and IC) will pair well with the MA-252? Joe - Are you still enjoying Kimber Kables?
Speakers will be further down the road; so just my AAD towers for now:
M-5T
Type 2.5-way Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Sensitivity 90dB
Impedance 6 ohm
Frequency Response 40Hz-40KHz +/-3dB
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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February 4, 2018, 10:17 AM #30
Re: Tube Integrated Help
2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)
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February 4, 2018, 09:44 PM #31
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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February 5, 2018, 03:24 PM #32
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Chris, I am in agreement. Mac's first hybrid integrated hasn't gotten a lot of review ink (at least that I can find) but I imagine it will fall right in line with what we've come to expect from McIntosh, albeit in a watered-down fashion.
I love how the package looks on paper - smaller footprint, headphone output, tube pre, ample solid-state power, and the storied Mac brand. What's not to like?
I won't be purchasing for a bit (after our move), so I will have time to research cables (and speakers for down the road) that mate well with the little amp. Color me excited.
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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February 5, 2018, 03:28 PM #33
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Good to hear. Joe. I know we've seen lots of forum members extremely happy with WW but I'll be open-minded and will start another thread as I continue to research synergistic cables. I want to check out the value-based offerings from the likes of Acoustic Zen, Kimber, AudioQuest, WW, etc.
Sean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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February 5, 2018, 03:32 PM #34
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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February 6, 2018, 12:14 AM #35
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February 6, 2018, 01:00 AM #36
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Re: Tube Integrated Help
Sean
I have never heard the Belden's but I have the Dueland IC's and SC and they are a steal.Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack
Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810
Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.
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February 6, 2018, 11:13 AM #37
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February 7, 2018, 09:24 AM #38
Re: Tube Integrated Help
MA-252... nice choice sean! i will be very interested to follow your experience w/ this hybrid amp.
i can also highly recommend cables made from Duelund wire... very economical, even for professionally manufactured cables using this wire. imo, a classic 90/25 situation: 90% of the performance at 25% of the cost. i use both SC and IC employing this wire. for the IC, i am running unshielded as my system and environment are not noticeably impacted by RFI/EMI -- this is less expensive and has better SQ.
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February 7, 2018, 08:25 PM #39
Re: Tube Integrated Help
I will be sure to share the experience as I bring in the 252; bear with me, though, please. I’ll be looking to acquire after a move in the next couple of months.
More support for Duelund! Must be something to that - thanks for chiming in.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkSean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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March 9, 2019, 04:38 PM #40
- Join Date
- Jun 2016
- Posts
- 62
Re: Tube Integrated Help
Since used was mentioned, for under $1000 you can get a rebuilt HH Scott 299 series which is kind of magical to me. Or you can get a non rebuilt which is what I've done and send it to NOS Valves (Craig is the owner) and have him redo it and should run just under $1k if your a little lucky. Unless you have very inefficient (power hungry) speakers this could work out.
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
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