Deciding between two entry-level amps

[David Politi]

Hey AK!

I'm a new member here, looking forward to making some new friends.

My current setup:

• Budget AT-120 turntable (belt, MM)
• Schiit SS preamp
• Klipsch RF 61 (98db sensitivity)
• 20x20' room, no room treatment

I'm upgrading my hifi at home with a tube amplifier, and I'm looking at two similar models. They appear to be from the same company (Nobsound) and I can't figure out which one to buy. Both are EL34-based SET, around 8W output/chan @8ohms, and around $350. It appears the cost-savings has affected the transformers the most, and both models are hand-wired on scaffolding.

• Option A Douk Audio EL34 Vacuum Tube Amplifier Class A single-ended
  • Link to eBay
• Option B Luxury Aiqin L-02 HIFI EL34
  • Link to Amazon

I'm looking for some insight and opinions on which one would be better for my setup (posted above) within the context of classical, noise, post-punk, and afrobeat.

David

 

[Poultrygeist]

I'd go with the one from Amazon. If for some reason you're not satisfied you can return it and they'll pay the return shipping.

Plus for a few bucks you can buy their extended warranty.

You do have recourse with an eBay purchase but it takes some effort.

 

[Stefan Wood]

You might want to complement the speakers with a subwoofer for the non classical music. The post punk and afrobeat may lack that bottom end.

 

[David Politi]

Thanks everyone! I ended up chickening out and ordering a MP-301

 

[Stefan Wood]

It is a better amp.

 

[Dr. Ears]

Hey AK!

I'm a new member here, looking forward to making some new friends.

My current setup:

• Budget AT-120 turntable (belt, MM)
• Schiit SS preamp
• Klipsch RF 61 (98db sensitivity)
• 20x20' room, no room treatment

I'm upgrading my hifi at home with a tube amplifier, and I'm looking at two similar models. They appear to be from the same company (Nobsound) and I can't figure out which one to buy. Both are EL34-based SET, around 8W output/chan @8ohms, and around $350. It appears the cost-savings has affected the transformers the most, and both models are hand-wired on scaffolding.

• Option A Douk Audio EL34 Vacuum Tube Amplifier Class A single-ended
  • Link to eBay
• Option B Luxury Aiqin L-02 HIFI EL34
  • Link to Amazon

I'm looking for some insight and opinions on which one would be better for my setup (posted above) within the context of classical, noise, post-punk, and afrobeat.

David

I am fairly certain they come out of the same factory. I would choose the one by Amazon because of customer service and the extra driver tube.