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
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


acbc
38 posts
 
Dared i30.  Check it out. 
mapman's avatar
mapman OP
15,679 posts
 
Thanks for the input from those who posted.

Actually, I must re-think this a bit. Wife will not be happy with any wires showing in our living room. Go figure?

Given that I’m thinking going portable with a small headphone amp only, maybe one with tubes even although that might result in me buying another pair of good quality headphones with higher impedance in any case. This might be the best solution to add music to that one room in my house missing it currently.  That and  maybe a pair of small good quality active studio monitors.
More to discover