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Advice on a lower priced tube integrated for a vinyl system

Happy holidays everyone,

I recently purchased some fairly efficient Contrast Audio monitor speakers (92db,16ohms), which opens up tube amp possibilities.  It's an analog-only system, based on a Acoustic Signature WOW XL and Avid Pellar phono stage.  My room is about 16x13.  I don't play the system very loud - highest I've ever recorded when rocking out is a peak of 85db, but 99% of the time no peaks of over 80db.  Primarily jazz, some singer/songwriter, and the occasional classic rock for nostalgia.  Nothing highly demanding like huge orchestras, rap, EDM, etc.  

I'm looking for an integrated that is on the tubey, warmer side of things.  Up to 2k new (but I hope to spend less by finding something used).  I was looking at the something like the Cayin A-50t.  But I'd love a few more suggestions from more seasoned tube veterans.  

Thanks, Scott
smrex13
inna
5,245 posts
 
There is VAC Avatar here for $2200 or less. Zero feedback seller, though.
wolf_garcia
4,650 posts
 
Jolida, or Black Ice or whatever they call themselves, make lots of tube  stuff that's great sounding and reliable, maybe half the cost of Primaluna.
big_greg
315 posts
 
Based on what you described, you should listen to some Primaluna gear, it has that warm "tubey" sound.  We have a local music club that meets at the local hifi shop and we've listened to one of the Primaluna integrateds a few times.  

The Primaluna sound is really engaging and the imaging and soundstage were excellent, but I couldn't help feeling that it was a little too "syrupy" (for me) and wasn't sure I would be happy with that type of sound over the long term.   

I have a Audio Research VSI55 integrated.  It has some of that warmness, but is more neutral.  I picked mine up used for under $2K.  There are newer iterations of the ARC integrateds, I think the VSI75 is the latest.  I have the VSI55 in my office system, but could be happy with it if it was my only system. 

I'm also a fan of Rogue Audio and Modwright - my main system consists of Rogue Audio M180 monoblocks and a Modwright LS100 preamp.  Again, these are more neutral sounding pieces, close to solid state but with just enough of that tube goodness (for me).  


smrex13 OP
423 posts
 
Thanks again for all the recommendations.  I didn't take any of them :).  I spent a little more than I had planned, but I just ordered the Still Audio EL34 integrated amp (stillaudio.com).  10wpc, 4/8/16 ohm taps, great reviews.  Just couldn't resist.  Will write a review after I get it...

Happy New Year!
Scott
wolf_garcia
4,650 posts
 
When I was looking around for a tube amp years ago I called Jolida and wound up talking to the owner Michael Allen and others, and Jerrod explained that the amp I was interested in (502P) wasn't voiced for a "tubey" sound, but really more like modern clarity, whatever that means. In any case, I bought that amp and it was great sounding without any particularly "euphonic" or greasy tube-esque tonal shading...a GREAT amp that was eventually replaced with a much lower powered SE amp from Dennis Had.
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