• WARNING: Tube/Valve amplifiers use potentially LETHAL HIGH VOLTAGES.
    Building, troubleshooting and testing of these amplifiers should only be
    performed by someone who is thoroughly familiar with
    the safety precautions around high voltages.

Tube amps

Hello!
I wonder if you can give suggestions for reasonably good tube amplifiers for €400-€700.
Thanks.
For my part, I think it is quite possible starting from an old amp, a Chinese amp or an amp in between like the Dynavox vr70 which is a great playground very well documented and quite affordable.
Mingda amps are too, especially the first ones that start to break down.
Unfortunately because of the exorbitant customs fees, it is almost no longer possible to bring American console or jukebox amps to Europe, and it is a shame because they are also great playgrounds.
 
Is Dynaco SCA 35 worth $700?

Brand: Dynaco
Model: SCA 35
Type: Tube amplifier
Accessories:
Information: Used tube amplifier in good condition.
Text at power switch a little worn.
Upgraded high voltage part.
Headphone socket mounted on the back.
Classic American tube amplifier that became style-defining.
Transformers of very high quality.
Tone controls with balance controls.
Stereo/mono switch.
Loudness.
Built-in good RIAA stage for MM pickups.
Equipped with 4 pieces of Soviet military grade EL84, 2 pieces of Sylvania 7199 and 2 pieces of 12AX7 LPS.
Output: 2 x 17.5 Watts into 8 ohar r 16 Ohms (RMS)
 
Is Dynaco SCA 35 worth $700?

Brand: Dynaco
Model: SCA 35
Type: Tube amplifier
Accessories:
Information: Used tube amplifier in good condition.
Text at power switch a little worn.
Upgraded high voltage part.
Headphone socket mounted on the back.
Classic American tube amplifier that became style-defining.
Transformers of very high quality.
Tone controls with balance controls.
Stereo/mono switch.
Loudness.
Built-in good RIAA stage for MM pickups.
Equipped with 4 pieces of Soviet military grade EL84, 2 pieces of Sylvania 7199 and 2 pieces of 12AX7 LPS.
Output: 2 x 17.5 Watts into 8 ohar r 16 Ohms (RMS)
Yes.

The previously mentioned article is mainly addition of EFB board ( which is available locally) to reduce load on power tubes AND somewhat increase power. New EL84 might also be needed, also available locally. But
if the amp works you have all the time you need to enjoy it before adjusting something.

If you live in gothenburg i can lend you a unit for test.
 
Are you a diy-er? It is not rocket science to build a tubeamp. Haven't read all the posts, so it's possible that I haven't caught everything... What speakers do you have, and are you thinking of an "integrated" amplifier, with volume control. and maybe input selector? I have several tube amplifiers, one I often use is an el84 single ended, triode coupled, and around 1.5 watts, class A. Uses Klipsch RP 160 M, or RP 250, and with 1.5 watts the Klipsch speakers sound magical.
 
Beat me to it 🙂

Another Dynaco here

I think a watchful eye on Tradera is a good starting point. I picked up an Ami Rowe amp converted to 6L6s that was perfectly good for 2000kr, and a 300B amp with Lundahl Transformers for 7000kr on Blocket. Just take your time to understand the market (bargains are hard to find on Saturday nights, bid at the last minute and research the max bid).

Good luck!
 
Last edited:
How about this used amp from Sweden? He will take offers. Not sure about the output transformers, but nice looking modern chassis and layout. https://www.ebay.com/itm/276784723853
1735636176557.png
 
  • Like
Reactions: LeifB60