Tube Amp Recommendations

[greenlotad]

I don't actually have any high-end headphones yet, but I've been thinking about buying a pair of Sennheiser HD 650s. I'm assuming my motherboard's on-board audio won't do them justice, and I also just want to try out tube sound. I'm kinda jumping in the deep end here though, I don't really know much about tubes. I've already read the pinned post "Before you buy amp and DAC + recommendations" but the only tube recommendation listed is the Schiit Valhalla 2, and it costs a fair bit more than I was hoping to spend. So are there any tube amps you would recommend for under $200 US? Or tube amp/DAC combos. I don't know if those exist but I would be happy with something like that too. Or are tube amps at that price just not even worth buying? 

[Guest]

Hi there. Would you consider a Schiit Audio Vali2? Link. You’re in the same state as this manufacturer. Perhaps a visit to their showroom might be possible...

 

Re: Valhalla 2. Oooof... that’s a nice machine. Perhaps a later purchase? The Vali’s significantly cheaper, eh. And the replacement tubes are plentiful & varied (for “rolling”).

 

My 2 cents... welcome to the forum! 

[greenlotad]

5 minutes ago, PrometheanCat-1970 said:

Hi there. Would you consider a Schiit Audio Vali2? Link. You’re in the same state as this manufacturer. Perhaps a visit to their showroom might be possible...

 

Re: Valhalla 2. Oooof... that’s a nice machine. Perhaps a later purchase? The Vali’s significantly cheaper, eh. And the replacement tubes are plentiful & varied (for “rolling”).

 

My 2 cents... welcome to the forum! 

Yeah, this looks pretty good. I'll definitely look more into it. Thanks!

[spwath]

10 hours ago, greenlotad said:

Yeah, this looks pretty good. I'll definitely look more into it. Thanks!

I agree, Vali 2 is a great amp, especially at the price.