A tube amplifier is an electronic amplifier that uses vacuum tubes to amplify or increase the signals or power signals. Immediately they pick the tiny sound wave signal produced by musical instruments such as guitar pickups, they operate by amplifying them into sound waves that are capable of moving up the air and causing hearing and vibrancy.
The majority of these stereo tube amps come with a set of tiny glass cathode-ray tubes that have pointed ends that glow warmly, which is always similar to the ones used in old televisions.
It can also be used for applications such as guitar amplifiers, high-quality stereo amplifiers, high-power radio, UHF television transmitters, satellite transponders, and military applications.
For electric basses and guitar, these signals are produced by pickups which are typically electromagnetic variants and pass through the preamp tubes and power tubes of the amp before going out of the amp through the speakers.
Tube or valve amplifiers were popular in the 1950s and 1960s but got into extinction as new guitar amplifier technology hit the music world. But in the last 20 years, the stereo tube amplifier has made a powerful and tenacious comeback alongside great technological advancement as digital and hybrid amplifiers which made their demands to be very high.
The stereo tube amplifiers are one of the most popular choices of musicians for their live performances.
Amplifiers that are made of vacuum tubes tend to produce deeper, richer tones and a real depth with good sound clarity when paired with the right speakers. But there are a lot of misconceptions about this world-class stellar sound amp that it is significantly more expensive than solid-state amplifier technology, that is not always the case.
Nevertheless, three are several different choices of this amp at many fair price points, so no need to worry about spending more than your budget to enjoy the outstanding, pure, and warm tone of a tube amplifier.
Table of Contents
Characteristics of Stereo Tube Amp
- Stereo tube amplifiers typically operate at higher voltage and lower currents than transistors.
- Stereo tube amplifiers have good linearity, they are capable of very high-frequency responses ranges.
- Stereo tube amplifiers increase their distortion directly with output level across three decades of voltage or million power range.
- Stereo tube amplifiers
- All stereo amplifiers are voltage amplifier
- All stereo tube amplifiers distortions are harmonious
Advantages of Stereo Tube Amp
- Stereo tube amps are suitable for high voltage circuits
- It can be constructed on a scale that can disperse a large amount of heat
- It is electrically very robust and can tolerate overloads for some minutes.
- It has the ability to withstand very high transient peak voltages without any damage.
- Stereo amplifiers generally operate at applied voltages well below their maximum capability.
- Stereo amplifiers subjectively give a more pleasant and more musically satisfying sound.
There are plenty of these stereo amplifiers to choose from such as the High end and the low end, there is definitely something to fit everyone which is why a lot of this type is being constructed.
A list of the best stereo tube amplifiers on the market based on overall sales, features, qualities, and user reviews has been compiled to analyze the things we like about them and the features that should be improved. But we would like to share these helpful factors to consider when purchasing the new tube amplifier.
Stereo Tube Amplifier Buying Guide
There are some qualities and features these amplifiers possess that are necessary for you to be aware of before shopping for the stereo tube amplifier, these features will guide you in making a good decision. The following features should be considered when searching for the best vacuum tube amplifier for your stereo system.
The Price
Apparently, spending more than the desired budget to get a stereo tube amp is not a desirable choice. Choosing a stereo tube amplifier that is within the range of $1000 and below should be a considerable factor, this does change the fact that cheap stereo tube amplifiers are still great in quality. So it does not mean that you would not be able to find a good deal on a great am, just take your time to investigate further and scout for good deals in making your choice.
The Tubes
This is one of the major components you need to look out for in the amp because there are multiple variations of tubes that the amps are constructed with. Each type of tube will surely have an impact on the performance of the amplifier. There are a few common types of this tube such as
- 6J1: It is characterized by its clear and fluid tone.
- 6J5: This type is one of the smaller tubes in term sizes and is commonly used in smaller or portable tube amps to produce a great sound.
- 65500: It produces clean sound quality, a decent choice for hard tones.
- EL34: These types of tubes are well known to be very powerful and produce an aggressive sound.
- KT66: This type will provide a smooth sound on higher tones with a fluid sound experience.
- EL84: It is one of the popular tubes for guitar music. It perfectly syncs with guitar notes.
All these tubes perform differently, which is why you need to choose your stereo tube amp according to the tube it contained and what you wanted it for.
Low Noise and Distortion Reduction Features
Irrespective of the fact that reasonably priced or aesthetically pleasing the tube amplifiers are, be sure to check their low noise and distortion reduction features. You would not like your stereo tube amplifiers being cranky or humming and buzzing through your speakers, that is the more reason you have to keep these features in check.
The amount of distortion of a stereo tube amp is easy to spot, the reason being that most of the manufacturers list this information on the packaging alongside other specifications about the amplifier but the noise level of a tube amplifier is not always included on the packaging, so take your time to search and read some user reviews about it to be sure of what you are getting.
Watts Per Channel
Watts per channel is typically the amount of power the stereo tube amplifier has. The more the watts are higher, the louder the volume can be cranked up without distorting or changing the sound.
Although higher-priced stereo tube amps are generally designed to have more watts per channel, there are still some affordable ones that are designed with reasonably good watts. So it is important to keep this in mind when narrowing down your list of preferred stereo tube amplifiers.
Bluetooth Compatibility
As it is known that Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy connection of other electronic devices wirelessly to stream any kind of music, so purchasing a stereo tube amp with this feature is basically like having a remote control to operate your system without any stress.
If you are an old-school music lover you can outrightly connect your tube amplifier to a turntable to play vinyl records for more old-school sound.
The Tone Control
Make sure to check if the tube amp can work in different tonal structures and gives you full control over the tone using different knobs and switches. It should make it easier to monitor the current settings by using either a clear description of the settings or by using digital readout screens.
All these abilities are some of the most significant features of stereo tube amp devices.
The Construction
Vacuum tubes are known to be fragile stereo components just by the nature of their design. They are usually sealed with bottles with all of the air removed, and resemble light bulbs. Do not purchase stereo tube amps that are flimsy and have very thin metal shells. Choose the ones that are sturdily built with a vintage look and beware of some manufacturers that may use cheap plastics to construct the stereo tube amp.
Consider purchasing a clear protective cover that lets the natural glow from the vacuum tubes spread warmth around the room and protect the tube amp if it is not included in the package.
Warranty
Having a good warranty on a product gives peace of mind of not making a mistake. Be sure to review the warranty information before making the purchase of the stereo tube amp.
Note and choose the type of quality the insurance is offering on their product and the company’s confidence in the quality of their product, this will assure an original and quality stereo tube amp that can not be easily damaged or have the need to be repaired frequently.
After considering all these factors, you can now go ahead and choose from our list of best stereo tube amplifiers under 1000.
Best Stereo Tube Amplifiers Under $1000
[amalinkspro_table id=”5808″ new-window=”on” nofollow=”on” addtocart=”off” /]Aiyima Audio 6J1 Tube Preamp Home Audio System
Specifications
- Power Adapter: DC12V 1.5A
- Work Voltage: AC 110V – 240V
- Audio Input: Bluetooth/ Aux Audio Input
- Audio Output: RCA Audio Output
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 kHz
- SNR: 98dB
- Treble Adjustment Range: 6dB
- Treble Bass Adjustment: Yes
- Bass adjustment Range: 10dB
- Dimensions: 137 x 120 x 35MM/ 5.39 x 4.72 x 1.37 Inches
Aiyima Audio 6J21 is one of the best stereo tube amps that contains a lot of accessible features that help it to function well. This amplifier is designed with a 6J1 tube and it can be easily replaced with other types according to choice.
It gives full control to the sound while connecting it to smartphones or other devices through its Bluetooth v5.0.
![[New Upgraded] AIYIMA GE5654 Tube Preamplifier Bluetooth 5.0 with Treble & Bass Adjustment DC12V HiFi Audio Preamp for Home Audio Amplifier System(Black+BT 5.0)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41JPOdNgdVL._SL500_.jpg)
Aiyima Audio 6J1 stereo tube amplifier is incredibly constructed with high-quality aluminum covering that makes it sturdy and durable. It also comes with two elevated stubs that enable better airflow through the device during its performances.
It also allows the user to easily adjust the treble, volume, and bass efficiently, thanks to its separate circuit construction that allows the user to tweak the sounds any way they like.
The 6J1 tube it contained is known for producing cleaner, and good quality sounds, it also works well with all systems that have an RCA in support. When a chosen system is plugged in, the rest of the cation is handled by this powerful amp.
- It is uniquely and exquisitely designed
- The gold plated RCA output seat
- It produces a sweet and soft sound that satisfies different hearing experiences.
- It is durable
- It is relatively cheap
- It can be connected to any device via Bluetooth
- It does not amplify the sound well enough
- It needs to be connected to an active speaker before it can actually amplify the sound.
Nobsound NS-08E Vacuum Tube Headphone Amp
Specifications
- Output Power: 1100 mW (32k Ohms)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.005%
- Headphone Adapter Impedance: 18-1600 Ohms
- SNR: 110dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 30 kHz
- Dimensions: 111 x 69 x 32MM / 4.37 X 2.72 X 1.26 in ( Height: 73MM with Vacuum tube installed)
- Weight: 185g / 0.41 lb
- Input Voltage: AC 100-240V 50/60 Hz
- Output Voltage: DC 6V 2000mA
Nobsound NS-08E Vacuum Tube Headphone Amplifier is also one of the exceptional products from Nobsound which is endowed with a lot of quality features and cost-effective prices. This portable stereo tube amp has the ability to play music from the computer, CD player, phone, and other devices while using different output sources like speakers and headphones.
It comes with a very high signal-to-noise ratio which serves as one of the super impressive features that come with it. The crisp and clear sound it gives is top-notch and it will be almost unrivaled as it is highly affordable to purchase. Nobsound NS-08E is a hybrid amplifier that uses the tubes for pre-amplification and transistors for the actual audio output.
It is nicely designed and put together. The two 6J9 tubes which are on the top black metal case are simply plugged into the provided socket and fit tightly into them. This stereo tube amp is easy to install and use.
- It very affordable
- Nice and warm sound
- The high signal to noise ratio feature
- It is sturdy and durable
- Some reported issues about the volume knob
- Does not include a Bluetooth connectivity
Bravo Audio Ocean Mini Valve Tube Headphone Amplifier
Specifications
- Brand Name: Bravo Audio
- Type: Home Amplifier
- Output Type: Line Out
- Input Type: Line in
- Built-in Battery: Nil
- Recommended Headphone Maximum Impedance: 32k Ohms
- Direct Stream Digital: Nil
- Body Material: Metal
- Channels: 2 (2.0)
- Tube Number: 12AU7
- Output: 3.5mm jack, 6.35mm jack, RCA jacks
- Input: 3.5mm, RCA jacks
- Dimensions: 115mm (D) x 82mm (W) x 78mm (H)
- Shipping Weight: 850 grams
Bravo Audio Ocean is also one of our selected tube amplifiers because is a Class-A headphone amplifier that is capable of providing an astonishing sound for its price. Despite being sold at really a fair price, it is beautifully and portably constructed with an aluminum case, which is responsible for protecting the amplifier’s components and dissipating head.
This stereo tube amplifier also features multiple jacks that give the opportunity to connect the amplifier to a wide variety of devices. It is less noisy and will absolutely give the user a unique and warm sound experience which is enhanced by an AD/DA converter with options for EQ and adding reverb.
This tube amp uses a 12AU7 tube that is responsible for its mid-centric sound. It is highly recommended for audiophiles because it often offers a unique and outstanding warm sound.
- It produces a clean and soft sound
- It includes multiple jacks
- It is relatively cheap and sturdy
- Its sounds and instruments are more separated for a more spread out sound
- The mid-range frequencies are normal.
- The amplifier gets quickly very hot.
Suca-Audio Tube-Ti Vacuum Tube Amplifier Mini Hifi Stereo
Specifications
- Power Supply: DC 12V/1.5A
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- SNR: 98DB
- THD: 0.1%
- Treble Adjustment Range: 6dB
- Control: Bass, Treble, Volume
- Bass Adjustment Range: 10dB
- Audio Inputs/ Audio Output: Gold-plated RCA
Suca-Audio Tube-Ti Vacuum Tube Amp is a versatile tube amp that offers high-quality tones and sound. It is very cheap and affordable and gets its job done perfectly well. This amp is available in two different colors to suit the user’s setup and it can be easily replaced with a different tube amplifier.
The sound is exciting and cooling to the ears of the listeners. It can also adjust the bass and the specific proportion components in high-frequency sound to fully achieve the HiFi effects. It uses accurate and stable integrated circuits and great components to eliminate low-frequency noise and to ensure clear sound quality.
- It is compactly designed and space-saving
- It optimizes integrated circuits and a high-quality power supply to minimize the noise
- It provides a warm, sweet, and dynamic sound feeling
- Its tube can be easily replaced
- High playability
- It is not a phono preamp for a turntable
- It can not be connected with a passive speaker but an active one.
- It is prone to damage.
