Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo Build a kit tube amp?

I'd like to get away from solid state for a bit and go the tube direction. However, many tube amps, like Jolida, ASL, etc., can get quite pricey, the cheapest of which seems to be about $500-800. My question is, is it worth trying to build my own from a kit? If so, could you recommend a good one that is reasonably priced?

I really like the warmer sound, but I just can't afford to spend two weeks salary. Maybe there are cheaper tube amps around, but I certainly haven't seen many. So, any suggestions in that department would also be appreciated.

On a side note, how many tube watts would you recommend for either the m22's or m3's?

Thanks,

Josh

2x6 is our resident tube expert.. hopefully, he will chime in here pretty quick.. from what i have seen, the tube amps can push real good with a very low wattage rating. i think i have heard guys talking about pushing good sized speakers with 10-15 watt tube amps.. i am almost positive i heard that.. ?

2x6 will correct me if i am wrong!!!

bigjohn

I dont think there are any kits that arent in the 500 dollar range for an amp. Preamp is a different story though.

You might want to look into vintage tubes, like the Dynaco ST-70. Check ebay.

sorry there haole-boy.. i forgot about ya..

i know you got some tube skills also.

forgive my oversight..

bigjohn

In your opinion, how much would just a tube preamp (with solid amp) effect sound vs. a fully integrated tube amp??

I was reading about tube amps at this site and they do start @ 600 bucks
http://www.bottlehead.com/et/et.html
I just don't understand how you can do a surround system with one because of the lack of outputs.
Can anyone educate me on how it is done with a tube amp?
Mac

I have a vision of a tubed surround processor the size of a room. That only does Dolby Surround.

YES, and creates enough heat to warm a small Inuit village!!

bigjohn

Gaaaah. I don't even want to run my receiver these days, given the heat out here. (nothing for you Texans, but I'm a wimpy Californian)

You may want to take a look at transcendent.
http://www.transcendentsound.com/preamp%20kit.htm

There got pretty good user reviews.
http://www.audioreview.com/Preamplifiers/Transcendent%20Sound/PRD_118430_1591crx.aspx

BTW, I have driving my m80ti using a custom built tube preamp (not transcendent though) and a merdian poweramp (SS). The sound is warm and sweet. If you already have a SS amp, maybe you can get a tube preamp and see if you really like the "tube" sound.