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What is the best integrated tube amp under $3k ?

I have recently been bitten by the tube bug. For the most part, I really love it. My short experience with tubes is turning out to be filled with much analyzing and upgrading of tubes, cables and different dacs. I am also discovering the strengths and weaknesses of some of the components that I am using.
I am starting to look at replacing my Jadis Orchestra Reference and would like to hear from what other folks are using as their integrated tube amps. My plan would be to try to spend about $3000 for a good preowned amp.
I'd especially like to hear from anyone that has owned a JOR and has found something that they are satisfied with.
I'd like find something that will be able to drive Dali Helicon 800 which are about 90.5 db sensitive.
I have heard of SET tube amps that people seem very excited about. I would like to hear some objective observations about these systems as well.
Thanks in advance.
128x128mattzack2
sbank's avatar
sbank
2,038 posts
 
Saki,

The Axiss website is the only one I know of.

From memory, ATM1 output tubes are 4 EL34s, a pair of input tubes, which I don't recall, and a 5AR4 rectifier, which isn't worth rolling. Power is around 35w/ch. Biasing is standard old school, drop a wire into a hole to read your meter, and adjust a small screw for each output tube. It wasn't tough, as I recall. No familiarity which the S model. Cheers,

Spencer
sean34
95 posts
 
Stevehifi, you should let everyone know that you are a representative for Sam's Audio Labs. FWIW I have heard that the Heathkit 151 from Sam's is killer.
sbank's avatar
sbank
2,038 posts
 
Stevehifi, shame on you! You haven't posted anything on any thread other than about an amp that rep? You will quickly have zero credibility if you don't disclose.

Where's Audiofeil when we need him? Cheers,
Spencer
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