Primaluna tube amps...

I realize reviews must be taken with a grain of salt, but did you visit this page?
http://www.primaluna-usa.com/reviews.htm

I've known Kevin Deal for many years, he's a stand up guy. I've bought NOS tubes and talked with him on the phone countless times and sent large amounts of cash for specialty products. He is an honest person.

Take that and balance with today's market, where there is so much high priced audio I don't see how a product as competitively prices as PrimaLuna can rightfully be referred to as crap.

Everyone is entitled to an opinion but the times I sat in front of PrimaLuna at CES I heard much to be admired and fit and finish are good too. As for better in this category? Another Audiogon member will have to fill in the blanks here.

Great sound, great build, and autobias for the power tubes. They're a great deal.

I've listened to several PrimaLuna products and find all of them to be excellent in build quality and top notch performers for the price. I also agree with Albert's comment about Kevin Deal. I have had many dealings with Kevin through the years and he has always been wonderful.

I've been using PrimaLuna products (PL One, Three, and Five)for over three years. They are far from CRAP! and at least competitive in their price range. Well built, very flexible tone wise with tube selection, and hassle free with either the units themselves or their distributor Kevin Deal.

However, I have found that there is far more synergy between PL units than used seperately with other amps/pre-amps, at least with the Three and Five amp/pre-amp. As I read reviews this caveat seems to extend to some of their high end amps as well. I have not liked the Three with other amps (except a Mesa Baron) as the upper frequencies seem a bit rolled, nor the Five with other pre-amps, as the bass really thins out. But that is just my experience.

When I find myself with an extra $10K or so I'll start exploring some better stuff.