Amp/Preamp Asylum

Looking for a new Amp or Preamp? If you're after tubes, post over here.

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RE: More Confused Every Day

Posted by jedrider on January 10, 2017 at 15:21:10:
Yeah, tube gear seems to have gone high priced, clearly > $1000.

You may want to learn all you can about some gear that once in a while shows up as used gear within your price range. I would think the amplifier is the most essential part to begin with, although an integrated solves both problems at once if you come across one.

I was once told that the output transformers are the most precious part of a tube amplifier, which is one reason you may want to stick with well-reviewed equipment. (Nobody told me that, but someone told me that a particular amplifier I had had crummy transformers, and I then sold that, and that another budget amp had actually good transformers, so I bought that one instead.)

I once saw that same VTL-45 for sale for $2500 and I think I unloaded it for $250. I bought an Anthem Amp-1 instead for $500 which had problems, which I eventually fixed myself, so if you see one, they have good transformers BTW!!