2. amps-preamps
  3. 123758-40

Tube integrated amp under $1000

Getting close to taking a plunge on a small tube integrated amp preferably under $1000.  Open for suggestions.   Small size and WAF matters.   The two leading contenders I have actually heard are Glow Audio Amp 1 and Jolida fx10.  

Only knock I know of against either is Jolida runs hot and can shorten lifespan.   How has that turned out for owners?

Will  run 90db small monitors initially  and needs a headphone Jack as well.  Ability to drive lower impedance headphones like Sennheiser Momentum without noise or hum desired. 


mapman
mapman's avatar
mapman OP
15,679 posts
 
Mik I'm considering the Musical Paradise and had read that.   Have never heard it though.   I wonder if it would have hum with 18 ohm Sennheiser Momentum phones?

bb I heard GLow at Capital Audiofest a few years back and the system it was in was one of the best I thought.   

This is for  a third system that would not be played too loud so I'm thinking I can get by.    Currently using a vintage 15 watt SS Yamaha receiver there with very good results 
mikirob
950 posts
 
Mapman,
I don't know about phones with it, but does sound problematic, otherwise a stellar performer. Best, Ron

mikirob
950 posts
 
Mapman,
I don't know about phones with it, but does sound problematic, otherwise a stellar performer. Best, Rob

fjn04
1,339 posts
 

Decware also comes to mind.  LM audio has a little EL84, but I believe it's generally used as a headphone amp.  I had an LM 211IA, actually an EL 34 based amp. I believe mine sold for a tad over $1K.

grinnell
661 posts
 
Decware might be a bit low powered for 90db speakers.  I run a Decware Mini Torii with 92db Ref 3A de Capos which are pretty tube friendly and could use a few more watts.

A used Primaluna PL2 would run under $900 but no head phone jack

Used Grommes PHI-26 run at 6 wpc would work has a headphone jack


More to discover