Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo Review of Tube Amp Which Makes Axiom M3s Sing

With thanks to Stereo Times for their review of the Antique Sound Labs MG S1 15DT:

"The Antique Sound Lab MG SI 15 DT is an exceptionally seductive and tantalizing amplifier. Its midrange and treble performance capture the sonic beauty of instruments in a way that re-awakens the ear’s delight in sonorous beauty and at a level of resolution that should arouse “Eureka!” responses, especially given its affordable price. Its rendering of CD should melt the heart of anyone frustrated by that format’s unnatural aspects. Though the amp’s bass performance, like every tube amp I’ve ever heard, falls short of a good solid-state amp’s drive, timing and control, and thus will limit the amp’s performance with some music, its opening up of a wide category of music’s deep sonic beauty is a rare achievement indeed, and one well worth the amp’s affordable price of admission.

Paul Szabady"

I have one of these and agree with Paul's review. I can also attest as to how sweet a match this tubie is with the Axiom M3s. Not as good with the M2s or the M22s, but super with the M3s.

I've read some pretty sketchy reviews as far as ASL's quality control, but I must say I wouldn't mind giving a tube amp a try with my M3s. $1100 is a pretty good chunk of change, though.

I've wanted to try one of these guys for quite some time. I have noticed the used market on MG SI15DT is very scarce. I don't know if ASL has stopped making them or what. You can sometimes find used ones on eBay for a good price. Older moldels don't have the biasing meter built in.

I'm (I think) with Adam on this. I'm curious about and receptive to the notion of a 2-channel tube system; I just can't afford to be that kind of curious at the moment.

I too have been curious about a tube set up. I think I might look into a tube buffer to use in my headphone set up. That should give me some kind of idea as to whether I like the sound without spending to much.

Yes, I paid just under $700 for one of these ... new, not many years ago. I think the dollar may be weakening. $1100 is not cheap. But the music it reproduces is truly and heart wrenchingly exquisite.

I looked at Audiogon and there isn't much like this one from ASL. There are a couple of Prima Luna's though.

I've dipped my foot w/ a Sophia Baby Amp. I really like it. Not bad for a $400 investment.

I was also intrigued by this article in my local paper. I have coworkers that go to Shenzen and Shanghai often, so I'm considering having them see what deals they can find for me. Heck, I'd even buy from the factory direct if it was possible.

Chinese Tube Equipment

Oldskoolboarder, most of the great tube amps out there are made in China. (including ASL) You should be able to get some great deals there. I haven't heard the Prima Luna but many reviewers who I respect love them. Kevin Scales from Upscale Audio in Ontario California thinks they're great.

Don't know the Sophia, but I like the name.

Hope you find a good one!

I've been checking out Pacific Valve for some of their wares. The prices don't seem to be too bad.