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Best Tube Amp under 10K?

Having every audio dealer in town recommend their line as "the best unless you want to spend $25K" and buy a ..." is frustrating. Well, like most of us, I can't spend $25K on amps ... but I am curious to know what others consider their "final" amp upgrade under $10K. My listening tastes are wide ranging but will mostly include SACD jazz and classical. I do not have a turntable ... yet. And I ususally play at low to moderate volumes only (the wife factor)-- speakers are reasonably efficient 91DB KEF Ref 4's that I hope to upgrade.
lornecherry
tvad
9,467 posts
 
VAC Phi 110/110 is pretty darn good @ $9500, and even better used. Clear, dynamic, and authoritative with great bass. Like an excellent SS amp with sweeter highs and the holographic quality of tubes.
smer319's avatar
smer319
86 posts
 
I own a T+A V10 integrated amplifier which I feel is absolutely amazing.Sunil @ 626-966-6259
jtimothya
551 posts
 
I have no idea what is the best. There is a point where the choice becomes a matter of personal preferences and priorities. The THOR TPA-30 Mk II monos are definitely worth a listen. Nicely balanced, they do everything well with no glaring flaws and have a drop dead gorgeous tonality. Made me stop thinking about equipment. If you're considering a 'final' amp, these come with a lifetime warranty.
sounds_real_audio
677 posts
 
Depends on what tube you prefer. The 6C33 are nice. Dark background good power. 300B's are great as well. Great in the mids though not much power. The 845's have the same great mids as the 300Bs but with a lot more power.
j_bailey
53 posts
 
There is no one best amp. It is all in the eye, or in this case, the ear of the beholder. In any comparison, the result depends upon who is making the comparison, the other equipment, the listener's musical preferences, the listener's financial resources, the listening space, and the listener's personality.

That being stated, I have a BAT VK-60 with a Wadia 850 (directly connected, no pre) and Gallo 3.0. I'm on the 3rd amp, the 3rd pair of speakers and the 3rd CD player. Third time is definitely a charm. My musical preferences include classic, rock and jazz. This system has given me many hours of enjoyment. The VK-60 is definitely magic and looks good as well (especailly when the lights are down low). SET, but without the normal disadvantages of SET.

It was, however, not until I did the acoustical treatments that the system really came alive. If I change this amp, it will be for a VK-75 SE.

J
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