Tube Amp Suggestions

electra100

electra100

Super Member
I would like some input on Makes of tube amps running EL34 or KT88 design. I have a wanted ad up in Barter town but would like to see if any one has a suggestion in the 500-600 range. I would like a ST-70 but am open to anything that has been tested and well regarded by our tight knit community. Thanks in advance!
 
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If you're willing to consider a kit for a bit more than $600, the Bob Latino ST-70 is very nice and comes standard with good upgrades compared to a stock unit. Tubes, however, are extra but the ST-70 works well with the Russian 6p3s-e which is available from Jim McShane for under $70.

http://www.tubes4hifi.com/bob

John
 
Look for Sinovt EL34 Push pull or single ended

The single ended is in your budjet (excluding shipping) but only 6wpc

The push pull model is more interesting.

They also have a 6L6 push pull, but not available on ebay from china sellers for now.

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j...sg=AFQjCNFUiMEeMBZKn9DOWB6_LlB2Ri7yCQ&cad=rja

Personally, i have a EL84 push pull from the Sinovt affiliate? company, their tranformers source, Raphaelite , and it's good quality.
 
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I have a lead on a ST-70 with an upgraded transformer. It is in Canada, too which is helpful. Board upgrade and quad cap are to be changed.
 
I'd put in another 200 bucks and buy Bob Latinos ST-120 and get the stepped attenuator. Buy the kit and build it. I built one and still have it. I compare it to a pair of McIntosh MC75 60th anniversary amps and at times I prefer the ST120. Killer amp for the money
 
If you want ready to use one, look at latest Chinese brands. They have many offerings in $500-1000 range. The best way to get them is through eBay storefronts. If you want to get your hands dirty and have experience in fixing and modding electronic devices, one of kits can be a better value. Old stuff (from 1950-60s) worth obtaining is more expensive than you want to pay.
 
This will only help if you're DIY-inclined, but in the last two months I've picked up several very inexpensive EL8x amps that I had very little trouble finding or affording. Here's my secret: Use the following search string in the electronics section on CL:

console -"Xbox" -"PlayStation" -"wii" -"ps3"

In the Antiques section just 'console' will do it.

There are some amazing amps and tuners in these old pieces that don't need much more than new caps and maybe a 3 prong plug to really shine. Find something American made from between '58 and '64 (depending on how important FM stereo is) and you'll have something that you can do a lot with, only relying on the resources that can be found here.
 
The amp kit that (AK member) Dave R recently completed is quite nice and it can be run in Triod or UL mode with 6550, 88 or 34 tubes. He did upgrade the stock Edcor Output Transformers to O'Netics Level Three. He also recently replaced the Edcor PT with a larger Power Transformer (Brand Unknown).

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A very nice design and Dave is very happy with it.

Best Regards,
TerryO
 
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