Tom Bombadil
AK Member
I know the ST70 was designed and built as a mid-cost amplifier and used some average quality parts, but was a respected performer and has certainly stood the test of time.
I see there are still several companies and builders offering new versions of the ST70. Most of them still use circuits very close to the original design, excepting for redesigning the 7199 circuit. I've been surprised by how close most of these offerings are to the original design, many stating that they are basically the same, but using upgraded parts.
Is the ST70 design, still today, considered a first class tube amp design? Or do you think that so many stay close to the original in order to produce a similar, family-style sound to the original?
I see there are still several companies and builders offering new versions of the ST70. Most of them still use circuits very close to the original design, excepting for redesigning the 7199 circuit. I've been surprised by how close most of these offerings are to the original design, many stating that they are basically the same, but using upgraded parts.
Is the ST70 design, still today, considered a first class tube amp design? Or do you think that so many stay close to the original in order to produce a similar, family-style sound to the original?