Any suggestions for an inexpensive tube amp?

[Xercese]

Greetings;


I would like to pick up a small, low power tube amp to power up a pair of beautiful old Altec Lansing bookshelf speakers that I have for the bedroom. I don't want to spend a ton of money, and don't need a ton of power, but I have nary a clue where to get started.

Anyone have some suggestions on where I could get going on this? Thanks!


Fred

 

[markw]

Define "inexpensive"

Generally, "inexpensice tubes" is an oxymoron but, depending on your answer to the question in the subject line, Jolida comes to mind.

 

[ski2xblack]

Hola, and welcome to the forum!

SETs: Decware, Wright Audio, Bob Allen, Wellbourne Labs, Eddie Vaughn. Buy used and save a bundle.

Safe bet: vintage, refurbed Dynaco ST-70, or old Scott. Inexpensive, hold their value, classic tube sound.

 

[Xercese]

Hi, guys, and thanks for getting back to me so quickly!

I would define inexpensive as under $400, but again, I'm clueless as to what I'm doing here. I know power amps, but the last tube amp I had was when I was 15, and I sure do wish I'd never traded it off!

Now, what is a SET unit?

Thanks!

 

[Xercese]

By the way, I'm not in need of anything that has multiple inputs or outputs; one stereo RCA input, one pair of outputs. I am looking for small, though; a few books stacked up kinda small. Am I getting way out of line, or is that still possible?


Fred

 

[GranteedEV]

Hi. I think if you want that fake tube sound, you should just simulate it with a program instead of paying for some unreliable junk .

 

[Xercese]

Hi, GranteedEV;


I don't recall saying I wanted fake tube sound. I recollect asking about an inexpensive solution to my problem, which was a simple tube amplifier to power a few nice old speakers that I have laying around and would like to return to service.

Does anyone else have any input as to what might fit the bill? Thanks!

 

[gpost3]

I think if you want that fake tube sound, you should just simulate it with a program

+1 Agreed and vacuum tubes are highly inefficient, big and bulky.

But if you really insist, Icon Audio Stereo 25 should fit the bill for under $500.

 

[GranteedEV]

I don't recall saying I wanted fake tube sound. I recollect asking about an inexpensive solution to my problem, which was a simple tube amplifier to power a few nice old speakers that I have laying around and would like to return to service.

Well if you want a tube amp, the only logic to that is because you want the fake tube sound. A cost effective way to obtain this is with software.

Otherwise you're just wasting money because solid state is a lot more cost-effective.

 

[bikemig]

miniwatt

This might be what you are looking for, http://www.miniwatt.com.hk/amplifiers.html
Here is a review of the miniwatt, http://news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-10423476-47.html

 

[Xercese]

Hey, that Miniwatt may be exactly what I'm looking for! I think I'll give those a shot. Thanks, all!


Fred