Monoprice 25 Watt Stereo Hybrid Tube Amplifier with Bluetooth
Product # 13194
UPC # 889028012291
$143.99
*Affirm is not available for business or international orders
This item has been discontinued
Qty: 1
$143.99
Qty: 2-9
$143.99
Qty: 10-19
$143.99
Qty: 20-49
$143.99
Qty: 50+
$143.99
Customers Also Shopped For
Questions and Answers
Do not include HTML, links, references to other stores, pricing or contact info.
My question is about:
If your question is about more than one item, click + to add them.
Browse 100 questions
Browse 100 questions
and 218 answers
Mine came with the tubes installed and not in separate boxes. Setup manual says the tubes are not pre-installed and that I'm supposed to install them. Anybody experience differently? Did I get a used one?
Michael K
on Dec 27, 2016
BEST ANSWER: Thank you for all of your great responses. We had some shipping issues with DOA tubes. We were going to ship with tubes uninstalled then discovered a better socket for the tubes. We chose to keep your experience as simple as possible. We kept the manual the same because it does give important info on replacing your tubes when they go bad which should be about 2-4 years.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Jan 25, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Thank you for all of your great responses. We had some shipping issues with DOA tubes. We were going to ship with tubes uninstalled then discovered a better socket for the tubes. We chose to keep your experience as simple as possible. We kept the manual the same because it does give important info on replacing your tubes when they go bad which should be about 2-4 years.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Jan 25, 2017
Mine came with the tubes installed as well. One of my tubes was actually broken so they sent me a new one to install. Then that one stopped working so they sent me a whole new unit. Now it works great. Great customer service!!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael P on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 9, 2016
I had mine delivered with tubes too. Not a problem. Love the sound when connected with cables and a good DAC.. The BlueTooth sound it terrible.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Per S on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 14, 2016
I got mine with tubes pre-installed as well. They work well and look new. Traditionally, they should come uninstalled for extra protection.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Feb 14, 2017
Mine also came with preinstall tubes. It works fine, no big deal (I got this amplifier almost 10. Months)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel H on Dec 28, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 13, 2016
I read the instructions about installing the tubes. Mine were installed as well and working great !
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Norman F on Dec 27, 2016
Mine was new and also came with the tubes installed and very happy with it.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Ruben L on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 8, 2016
Mine also came with the tubes installed and I'm confident it was brand new.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Martin A on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 15, 2016
I don't think so. Mine also had the tubes installed when it arrived.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Richard S on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 7, 2016
Mine came with the tubes installed. Don't think I got a used one.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Wm Max A on Dec 28, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 14, 2016
My amp were assembled. I didn't have to install the tube.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jesus F S on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 15, 2016
My tubes were Pre-installed also
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Lewis R on Dec 27, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 8, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Will the amp be ok (heat dissipation) on wooden shelving with 7" of top/bottom clearance? The sides and front/back are open. I could add a small fan if needed.
Ryan D
on Jan 3, 2018
I'm using it with between two shelves with less clearance than that and it does not seem to be a problem. I am overall very happy with this purchase. Looks good, sounds good too. As others have reported, construction quality is hit and miss. The treble and bass knobs are not really centered in their holes and mine had a bad case of 60Hz buzzing from the mains leaking into the sound output. I returned it and got a replacement which does not have the problem.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Martin G on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Aug 31, 2018
Ryan, if, as you say, you have 7" of clearance on the top AND bottom, it should be fine. The amp doesn't get all that hot because these are smaller tubes. I am basically using it as a preamp, to plug into a larger (tube) power amp that doesn't have any controls. I LOVE the sound of tubes, and don't have ANY solid-state devices in my system. Just to really be on the safe side, I would definitely use the fan with it.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter S on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on May 27, 2018
To be honest I've never noticed any appreciable amount of heat coming off of mine, probably because the tubes are open and can dissipate freely into the air. I use mine in a wooden shelving unit that's bigger but my Amp been one for over an hour now and it's still not very warm to the touch.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel B on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Aug 6, 2018
If you mean 7 inch clearance above the tubes, no problem. A small fan would help in any situation , but would be a bit annoying as it would be a bit of a drone sound while listening. I do not think you would have any problem either way.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- WILLIAM M on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 21, 2018
Mine is just setting on a small table by my bed. The tubes are hot to the touch and will burn you but I don't think it generates enough heat to be a problem in your situation.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles H on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 6, 2018
I have a similar space with a closed space and haven't noticed any issues.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert F on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Jun 25, 2018
It should be fine. Mine only generates as much heat as a cup of coffee.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael D on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 21, 2018
Should be fine... they get warm, but not hot, no chance for fire :)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jason C on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Aug 11, 2018
You should be fine. Don’t leave it on 24/7 though.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Erick on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 20, 2018
Yes it would be fine it doesn’t get that hot.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William M on Apr 16, 2019
- Purchased on Aug 24, 2018
It will be fine. The unit doesn't get hot.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jim M on Apr 17, 2019
- Purchased on May 15, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
Does it come with remote control?
alex c
on Jun 5, 2020
BEST ANSWER: No it does not come with a remote control. The controls are manual - but you can stream music or other audio files via Bluetooth or by cable.
Dan Kral - I am a customer who owns this device.
Dan Kral - I am a customer who owns this device.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel K on Jun 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 15, 2019
BEST ANSWER: No it does not come with a remote control. The controls are manual - but you can stream music or other audio files via Bluetooth or by cable.
Dan Kral - I am a customer who owns this device.
Dan Kral - I am a customer who owns this device.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel K on Jun 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 15, 2019
Nope, it's just what you see in the picture — but I think it has a great sound!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Nick B on Jun 5, 2020
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2019
No remote included or available. Control knobs are all manually controlled.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jason W on Jun 5, 2020
- Purchased on Aug 30, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Do I need a preamp between this and my turntable?
A shopper
on Dec 10, 2016
BEST ANSWER: Yes you do, and make sure to ground things appropriately.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Matthew T on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on May 20, 2016
BEST ANSWER: Yes you do, and make sure to ground things appropriately.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Matthew T on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on May 20, 2016
If your turntable doesn't have one built in yes. Newer turntables can have a phono amp built it. If not you will need a separate phono amp to play it on most newer systems that don't have a built in phono amp. This should not be confused with a turntable with a USB output for a computer. Those wounds not be compatible with this amp unless you Bluetooth from your computer to the amp. I will say that the Bluetooth on the amp works very nicely it streams from phone computer and DAC well.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles L on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on Jun 4, 2016
Yes, unless your turntable has a built-in phono pre-amp. Nowadays, many turntables have one.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Feb 14, 2017
You need a turntable with pre-amp out RCA so yes.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- scott w on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on May 29, 2016
Yes, unless your turntable has a built~in pre.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Hugh on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on Jun 5, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Can this amp go between a laptop computer and desktop speakers? What cables do I use? Thanks. David
A shopper
on Nov 21, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You can plug you laptop to this Tube amplifier. You will need passive (non-amplified) speaker. You desktop speaker are most likely powered. Take a look at the Stereo Tube Headphone Amp with 24-bit/96kHz USB DAC, Bluetooth, and Preamp Out. You can use with analog connections or USB from the laptop. This has a Line Level output that will work with your powered desktop speakers.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Big D on Dec 1, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You can plug you laptop to this Tube amplifier. You will need passive (non-amplified) speaker. You desktop speaker are most likely powered. Take a look at the Stereo Tube Headphone Amp with 24-bit/96kHz USB DAC, Bluetooth, and Preamp Out. You can use with analog connections or USB from the laptop. This has a Line Level output that will work with your powered desktop speakers.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Big D on Dec 1, 2016
If your laptop has bluetooth just pair it with the amp. This is the way I like to use my amp. A usb bluetooth adapter can be found on the internet for a small price.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Norman F on Dec 27, 2016
I would advise you to add in a Digital Analog Converter between your computer and the tube amp because a computer often has the worst DAC installed.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Feb 14, 2017
Yes, I think it's meant for this purpose at first. You can connect your laptop using bluetooth or 1/8 to RCA cables, works like a charm.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Juan L on Dec 7, 2016
it uses RCA plug as input connector, so you'll need headphone jack to RCA cable.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David T on Dec 26, 2016
- Purchased on Nov 4, 2016
For a cable you need a 1/8" stereo output into two RCA plugs.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tom C on Dec 19, 2016
- Purchased on Nov 28, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Can I use this for a record player with a built in pre-amp?
A shopper
on Feb 9, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, use the Line Out from your turntable to the line in of the tube amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 11, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, use the Line Out from your turntable to the line in of the tube amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 11, 2019
Yes you can. I am using it with an external 4 way input selector that allows choosing a magnetic cartridge turntable with a preamp, a CD player, the TV and a Media center. No problems with any of them. The volume does change a bit with each as it always does but it is a simple thing to either turn up or down the volume. Tis amp does produce very sweet sound.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Walter R. on Feb 11, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 2, 2018
Yes; if the record player has a built-n phono preasmp it will provide a "line-level" output via either a "miniplug" (3.5mm) jack or two (right and left) RCA jacks. The Monoprive integrated amp has RCA jacks for input; you will need a cable with RCA plugs on one end and miniplug or RCA plugs - depending on your record player, on the other end.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael W on Feb 11, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
There is one input on it but you probably need a stand-alone "Phono Stage" between your record player and the input.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Geoffrey B on Feb 12, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2018
Yes. If you are using a turntable with a built in preamp, this will work fine.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- John on Feb 11, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2018
Yes. It has an rca input, it's just labelled CD on the front
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Thomas M on Feb 11, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
If the amp has a preamp will I need a separate one for my turntable? If so,
why? And why would it be advertised with a preamp if I need another one?
why? And why would it be advertised with a preamp if I need another one?
New User U
on Jul 9, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This amplifier does not have a built in phono preamp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Jul 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This amplifier does not have a built in phono preamp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Jul 10, 2019
A turntable preamp (phono preamp) is not the same as an amplifier preamp.
An audio amp makes the sound ready for your speakers and has no volume control, bass, treble or balance. This unit has a solid state amp.
An audio Pre-amp takes “line level” inputs like from a CD player and allows you to adjust the volume, bass, treble, and balance to get it ready for the amplifier. His unit has a tube preamp.
A phono Pre-amp takes the very low signal from your turntable cartridge (either magnetic or ceramic — each of which are each different but both extremely low level) and makes it a line-level signal ready for your Pre-amp. This unit does not have a phono input (and does not have a phono preamp)
Hope that helps!
PS - many newer turntables have both phono level and line level outputs. If your turntable has a switch on the back marked phono/line you will not need a phono preamp.
An audio amp makes the sound ready for your speakers and has no volume control, bass, treble or balance. This unit has a solid state amp.
An audio Pre-amp takes “line level” inputs like from a CD player and allows you to adjust the volume, bass, treble, and balance to get it ready for the amplifier. His unit has a tube preamp.
A phono Pre-amp takes the very low signal from your turntable cartridge (either magnetic or ceramic — each of which are each different but both extremely low level) and makes it a line-level signal ready for your Pre-amp. This unit does not have a phono input (and does not have a phono preamp)
Hope that helps!
PS - many newer turntables have both phono level and line level outputs. If your turntable has a switch on the back marked phono/line you will not need a phono preamp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- HockeyDad on Jul 10, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 16, 2018
I'm not an "expert" so let me give you my understanding. The tube preamp is used to enhance the sound. I don't believe it is a separate preamp that a standard turntable requires. Some turntables do have preamps built into them.
I'm disappointed that it doesn't have a preamp also. I do enjoy the warmth that it has and it looks nice too.
Hope that helps.
I'm disappointed that it doesn't have a preamp also. I do enjoy the warmth that it has and it looks nice too.
Hope that helps.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Kris W on Jul 9, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 11, 2018
The amp has a " line level" pre-amp. You need a mm pre amp, for cartridges like Stanton 500 E, Shure all...etc. Monoprice sell it....also Moving Coil, much more $$...Most people don't have turntable...the amp is fine for Tuners, cassette player, TV too.!! Reese Woods. Hifi-pro.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- baldwin w on Jul 10, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 26, 2018
All you need is this amp, just plug your turntable in and go. You will need some efficient speakers. I just use mine with the bluetooth off of my phone and it works great for that
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles H on Jul 10, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 6, 2018
This amp does not have a phono preamp. A decent one can be purchased for around a hundred dollars.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael D on Jul 10, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 21, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
Does it take optical input?
A shopper
on Aug 1, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This particular unit doesn't have optical nor coaxial input, it only has regular RCA in, L and R
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Movses J on Aug 3, 2020
- Purchased on Jul 19, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This particular unit doesn't have optical nor coaxial input, it only has regular RCA in, L and R
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Movses J on Aug 3, 2020
- Purchased on Jul 19, 2020
No! This particular model only has an input for one source. ie. cd player ,etc
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- kevin r on Aug 2, 2020
- Purchased on Jul 13, 2020
No Optical input. Only RCA. Cool little amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- M.Yu on Aug 2, 2020
- Purchased on Jul 19, 2020
No other input except the analog RCA.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alfredo M on Aug 2, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 2, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
So I hooked up my desk to computer to my hybrid tube amp and music only comes out of one speaker. What type of cable should I be using?
Darren P
on May 13, 2018
BEST ANSWER: You will need a TRS 3.5mm cable from your computer's headphone or line out to the dual RCA input of the tube amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on May 16, 2018
Monoprice 6ft Premium 3.5mm Stereo Male to 2RCA Male 22AWG Cable (Gold Plated) - Black
BEST ANSWER: You will need a TRS 3.5mm cable from your computer's headphone or line out to the dual RCA input of the tube amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on May 16, 2018
Monoprice 6ft Premium 3.5mm Stereo Male to 2RCA Male 22AWG Cable (Gold Plated) - Black
Unless you have extremely long cable runs, ordinary 14AWG speaker wire (or similar) works fine. If only one channel is producing sound, cable "type" is not your problem. Carefully check all your connections. Also test speakers and wires using a known good source (some other amp). If one side is still silent, you may have a defective unit.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert C on May 17, 2018
- Purchased on Aug 23, 2017
I did not experience any issue after having connected each speaker individually, to the ports on the back if amp unit. Was your problem experienced while in Bluetooth mode also? Maybe try that mode also to see if you get same problem. My system cranks.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Walter Z on May 17, 2018
- Purchased on Oct 1, 2017
If you switch the phono plugs over, does it come out of the other side? If so the problem is that you are only getting one channel from your PC . Try using a minijack headset connector to phono adaptor and plug it in your headset output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Clive F on May 17, 2018
- Purchased on Mar 23, 2017
How are you connecting your speakers? There are two physical outputs: the headphone jack and the four hardwire terminals (left and right channels) on the rear panel.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Brian on May 17, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 22, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
What advantage is there to using a "hybrid" vacuum tube as opposed to a completely solid state audio amplifier?
A shopper
on Jan 6, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This amp is called a hybris because we use tubes in our pre-amp stage and a solid-state power amp to drive the speakers. It is a great way to get the "Tube" experience in to the hands of folks that may be skeptical and do not want to invest a lot of money. The tube warmth is a really nice remedy to the harshness of bluetooth audio.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Jan 7, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This amp is called a hybris because we use tubes in our pre-amp stage and a solid-state power amp to drive the speakers. It is a great way to get the "Tube" experience in to the hands of folks that may be skeptical and do not want to invest a lot of money. The tube warmth is a really nice remedy to the harshness of bluetooth audio.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Jan 7, 2019
Short answer; the tubes are there to color the sound, and more importantly, look pretty. IIRC, this integrated amp uses the tubes as a pre-amp stage and typical class a/b amplification as the output stage. They are trying to attain the sound and selling point of tubes, which are all the rage these days. Thing is, it takes a larger investment to build a tube output stage than a typical class a/b output stage, hence the tube pre-amp stage to get the sound of tubes and a class a/b output stage to keep costs low. Sound wise, this may be no giant killer but it does sound better than most of the stuff at the local big box store and it looks ... well, you decide. .
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- KENNY M on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
Having tubes in the signal path gives the music a "Warmer" sound than all solid state. Some people can't tell the difference, and some people won't ever go back to solid state after listening to tubes. It is very subjective. Remember to get some time on the tubes before making a decision, though. I noticed a big difference between how this unit sounded the first time I plugged it in, and how it sounded after a couple hours. That is the tubes breaking in. This stereo definitely sounds good, which is really all that matters.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Geoffrey B on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2018
There are many reasons and many web pages dedicate to explaining why tubes sound better. Things like soft clipping, euphonic distortions, progressive distortion, etc. I am sure in the end it is just a preference. To me, tubes have a warm pleasing sound. And they look cool.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- D A on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
I think it adds a warmth, more natural sound to the amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Erick on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 20, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
1) Can I plug this into an existing amplifier (Kenwood KA-601) I use to drive my speakers as a way to add bluetooth to my legacy system? What are the downsides of plugging an amplifier into an amplifier?
2) Can I pair multiple bluetooth devices to this unit (multiple phones, bluetooth projector, etc)?
2) Can I pair multiple bluetooth devices to this unit (multiple phones, bluetooth projector, etc)?
A shopper
on Jan 22, 2019
BEST ANSWER: I would not use the Hybrid Tube Amp merely as a way to provide Bluetooth connectivity to you Kenwood. It will likely distort to unacceptable levels. There is also a real possibility that the Kenwood will be overloaded and damaged. It was never designed to take input from another amplifier. Why not just buy a Bluetooth receiver and a 3.5 mm to RCA twin jack cable? That option will give you what you want with none of the problems of connecting one amp to another. Bluetooth receivers are not expensive. You will want to check to make sure that your sending device and the receiver match up in features if you want those features to be apparent in the sound. For example iPhones didn't (and maybe still don't) support the AptX protocol. So if the Bluetooth receiver supports AptX but the sending device doesn't use it, it will not be present in your system.
As to your second question, if you want to pair multiple devices at the same time to the Hybrid Tube Amplifier the answer is no. Bluetooth is essentially a wire running from point A to point B except that the wire is made of radio waves and not copper. So, just like using a physical wire, Bluetooth can only handle one device at any one time. Of course, you can always disconnect any device and pair another anytime you want.
Cheers!
As to your second question, if you want to pair multiple devices at the same time to the Hybrid Tube Amplifier the answer is no. Bluetooth is essentially a wire running from point A to point B except that the wire is made of radio waves and not copper. So, just like using a physical wire, Bluetooth can only handle one device at any one time. Of course, you can always disconnect any device and pair another anytime you want.
Cheers!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David Plowden P on Jan 23, 2019
- Purchased on Jun 22, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I would not use the Hybrid Tube Amp merely as a way to provide Bluetooth connectivity to you Kenwood. It will likely distort to unacceptable levels. There is also a real possibility that the Kenwood will be overloaded and damaged. It was never designed to take input from another amplifier. Why not just buy a Bluetooth receiver and a 3.5 mm to RCA twin jack cable? That option will give you what you want with none of the problems of connecting one amp to another. Bluetooth receivers are not expensive. You will want to check to make sure that your sending device and the receiver match up in features if you want those features to be apparent in the sound. For example iPhones didn't (and maybe still don't) support the AptX protocol. So if the Bluetooth receiver supports AptX but the sending device doesn't use it, it will not be present in your system.
As to your second question, if you want to pair multiple devices at the same time to the Hybrid Tube Amplifier the answer is no. Bluetooth is essentially a wire running from point A to point B except that the wire is made of radio waves and not copper. So, just like using a physical wire, Bluetooth can only handle one device at any one time. Of course, you can always disconnect any device and pair another anytime you want.
Cheers!
As to your second question, if you want to pair multiple devices at the same time to the Hybrid Tube Amplifier the answer is no. Bluetooth is essentially a wire running from point A to point B except that the wire is made of radio waves and not copper. So, just like using a physical wire, Bluetooth can only handle one device at any one time. Of course, you can always disconnect any device and pair another anytime you want.
Cheers!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David Plowden P on Jan 23, 2019
- Purchased on Jun 22, 2018
No, it doesn't have line outputs, no optical or coax outputs that you could use. I'd recommend a Bluetooth device, which I believe Monoprice sells, such as the Logitech one on the Monorprice web site. These work GREAT to bring older receivers and amps up to today's connectivity. See Logitech
Product # 23304 on the Monoprice site. https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=23304
Product # 23304 on the Monoprice site. https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=23304
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Elliott Y on Jan 22, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 21, 2018
To be honest I do not know if you can run this Amp through your existing system. That being said I have owned several high end amps ( Mostly Vintage) and we added this one to run some nice bookshelf speakers in the bed room. 25 watts via tube is plenty loud. This is an amazing amp for it's size and price. The bluetooth is perfect for the way my wife likes to stream music and the sound quality is vintage and stellar.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Philip B on Jan 22, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 24, 2018
No, this amplifier only has speaker outputs and NO line outputs (which some amplifiers have). If you were to use the speaker outputs, you would probably damage the Kenwood amp. The Monoprice only has one pair of stereo inputs (labeled CD), you COULD plug a bluetooth device into it. In order to have multiple inputs, you would have to get some type of inexpensive signal splitter. Hope this helps.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter S on Jan 22, 2019
- Purchased on May 27, 2018
1)No. It would be far easier to but a bluetooth cd player and use that. If you still want that tube sound you will need to get a tube pre amp and put that in front of your amplifier after your media player.
2) Yes you can pair multiple devices but only one at a time.
2) Yes you can pair multiple devices but only one at a time.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel B on Jan 23, 2019
- Purchased on Aug 6, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
I have a turntable with a ground wire. Is it possible to connect it to this amp?
A shopper
on Jul 22, 2020
BEST ANSWER: No. You need a phono preamplifier. That will have a post for the ground wire, and will connect to the tube amp. Any amp you buy will need this, unless it specificly states that it has a phono preamp built in.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael W on Jul 23, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 2, 2020
BEST ANSWER: No. You need a phono preamplifier. That will have a post for the ground wire, and will connect to the tube amp. Any amp you buy will need this, unless it specificly states that it has a phono preamp built in.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael W on Jul 23, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 2, 2020
Not without a phono preamp, which are relatively inexpensive. I believe they do sell a tube amp with a phono connection. This is a great amp - absolutely love it.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert G on Jul 22, 2020
- Purchased on Oct 24, 2019
I don't think so. If you look at the image of the back of the amp, it uses RCA connectors to connect to the turntable (next to the bluetooth antenna)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Christopher C on Jul 22, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 2, 2019
The amplifier has no ground terminal. That being said, it sounds really good with a turntable. Warm, full and plenty loud.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Craig B on Jul 22, 2020
- Purchased on Oct 27, 2019
You would need to attach it to one of the screws on the back.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Steven F on Jul 22, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 24, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
I have no existing system. I think I need a CD player and speakers?
A shopper
on Apr 18, 2017
BEST ANSWER: You will need some speakers. Depending on how big of an area you are filling. This amp is pretty low power, so some bookshelf 3-way will work Monoprice has some nice choices that are reasonable. It has inputs on the rear, that wil accommodate a CD player or turntable. The great thing about this amp, it has Bluetooth! Hope this helps!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Billy34522 on Apr 18, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 10, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You will need some speakers. Depending on how big of an area you are filling. This amp is pretty low power, so some bookshelf 3-way will work Monoprice has some nice choices that are reasonable. It has inputs on the rear, that wil accommodate a CD player or turntable. The great thing about this amp, it has Bluetooth! Hope this helps!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Billy34522 on Apr 18, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 10, 2016
correct a pair of speakers and a CD player or since this has Bluetooth you could use your smart phone as the source assuming you have music on your telle..
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- greg m on Apr 18, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 10, 2016
Speakers yes. CD player no. The Bluetooth streams nicely from phone or computer
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles L on Apr 18, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 4, 2016
Yes you will. This item is just the amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David B on Apr 19, 2017
- Purchased on May 22, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Can I operate this without speakers connected, like a headphone amp only? or does it require a load?
Robert C I
on Feb 10, 2018
BEST ANSWER: it should work just fine as a headphone amplifier. As a tube amplifier it doesn't have a right and left balance as a solid state will have. It will be quite a bit larger than a standard headphone amplifier.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- John B on Feb 13, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 25, 2017
Thank you John.
- Reply
- Robert C I on Feb 13, 2018
BEST ANSWER: it should work just fine as a headphone amplifier. As a tube amplifier it doesn't have a right and left balance as a solid state will have. It will be quite a bit larger than a standard headphone amplifier.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- John B on Feb 13, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 25, 2017
Thank you John.
- Reply
- Robert C I on Feb 13, 2018
According to the owners manual, the speaker outputs are disabled when a plug is inserted into the headphone jack. That suggests the headphone output is driven from the amp output.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Walter C on Feb 13, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 14, 2017
Thank you Walter.
- Reply
- Robert C I on Feb 19, 2018
There is a headphone jack on the front. The speakers shut off when plugged in so probably do not need a load
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Gareth S on Feb 13, 2018
- Purchased on Aug 6, 2017
Thank you Gareth, That is a good point. Been using power amps too long that require loads. Mindset was in the wrong place.
- Reply
- Robert C I on Feb 13, 2018
This amplifier doesn’t need a load, but it hums in the presence of plasma type monitors.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Billy on Feb 13, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 16, 2017
Thanks Bily.
- Reply
- Robert C I on Feb 14, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
Can we plug it into a French outlet, or do we need a transfo?
And is ir possible to connect pc speakers (with a subwoofer) type Edifier CX2 to this Monoprice amp
Thank you so much
And is ir possible to connect pc speakers (with a subwoofer) type Edifier CX2 to this Monoprice amp
Thank you so much
A shopper
on Feb 8, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The 25W tube amp is only to be use with 110V/60Hz power. You will need an international convertor.
This amp does not have line level outputs to plug in to additional powered speakers.
This amp does not have line level outputs to plug in to additional powered speakers.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 19, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The 25W tube amp is only to be use with 110V/60Hz power. You will need an international convertor.
This amp does not have line level outputs to plug in to additional powered speakers.
This amp does not have line level outputs to plug in to additional powered speakers.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 19, 2019
You would just need a plug adapter to use it in France. However, the Edifier is already an amplifier. It only needs a source, like a smart device or a turntable. The best use for the Monoprice hybrid amp is to connect it to a pass-though powered subwoofer and then on to a pair of passive speakers. Monoprice sells both, if you'd like a nice homogenous set-up. (I don't work for them--I just like their products.) Bon chance! Vive la France!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- SteveninVA on Feb 8, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 26, 2018
I don't recommend this amp for 230 volts. But it's possible to use it for sub-woofer... with one that has it's own x- over my website is under- construction. Can help you with HiEnd audio.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- baldwin w on Feb 11, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 26, 2018
The Edifier CX2 speakers should work well.
Input Voltage Range
100 ~ 120 VAC, 60 Hz so you will need a transformer
Input Voltage Range
100 ~ 120 VAC, 60 Hz so you will need a transformer
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael Pecoraro I on Feb 8, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 31, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
What does the VU Meter indicate ? Mine keeps on moving even though the volume knob is at its minimum (i.e. no sound coming out of speaker).
A shopper
on May 8, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The 'volume unit' meter is there as a representation of signal level. You should see the needle continue a general trend to the right (generally 0 db) as the volume knob is turned up and volume increases. Cosmetics mean a lot in the sales world, and although this meter does add a sense of nostalgia (that is why you bought an amp with tubes ... right?), this VU meter's main function is one of cosmetics. I would not worry if the meter was not accurate unless of course, something else seemed amiss.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- KENNY M on May 8, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The 'volume unit' meter is there as a representation of signal level. You should see the needle continue a general trend to the right (generally 0 db) as the volume knob is turned up and volume increases. Cosmetics mean a lot in the sales world, and although this meter does add a sense of nostalgia (that is why you bought an amp with tubes ... right?), this VU meter's main function is one of cosmetics. I would not worry if the meter was not accurate unless of course, something else seemed amiss.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- KENNY M on May 8, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
The VU Meter shows you the Input Level. Sound from your speakers is the Output Level. If the VU meter is in the red you will likely hear nasty sound. Lower the input 'volume', the VU Meter shows a lower reading and the sound is better. The VU meter is there to show you the Input 'volume'.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Walter R. on May 8, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 2, 2018
Mine does the same thing. It is actually reading the ( input ) not the output of the amp. But it's a sweet little amp, for the $...12 watts/per channel RMS @ 8 ohms. More than u need if driving a JBL Paragon!!Enter
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- baldwin w on May 12, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 26, 2018
incoming audio level.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael Pecoraro I on May 8, 2019
- Purchased on Oct 31, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
On the 25 watt stereo hybrid tube amp 13194. Are all 4 tubes suppose to light up? We just bought it and the middle 2 are not light up and we are getting loud static when listening to a cd but do not hear it when listening on Bluetooth
New User U
on Sep 12, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes, all four tubes should light up. Re-seat the tubes that are not lighting up. If they do not light up it may be the tubes are it could be the amp. You should not get loud static. If this is a brand new amp I would ask for an exchange
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert G on Sep 13, 2020
- Purchased on Oct 24, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, all four tubes should light up. Re-seat the tubes that are not lighting up. If they do not light up it may be the tubes are it could be the amp. You should not get loud static. If this is a brand new amp I would ask for an exchange
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert G on Sep 13, 2020
- Purchased on Oct 24, 2019
On mine , the outer 2 light up but the inner 2 are very faint. Have experienced no static; clean sounds.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- august g on Sep 14, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 6, 2019
I have only used mine in blue tooth and all of my tubes light up and there is no static
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James M on Sep 13, 2020
- Purchased on Oct 27, 2019
All 4 tubes should light. Should not hear static. Sf
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen F on Sep 13, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 23, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
can I use this with wireless bluetooth earphones ?
A shopper
on Dec 5, 2016
BEST ANSWER: The Bluetooth is an input not an output. Your headphones would need a transmitter plugged into the headphone jack to work or they would just sync with your source
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles L on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on Jun 4, 2016
BEST ANSWER: The Bluetooth is an input not an output. Your headphones would need a transmitter plugged into the headphone jack to work or they would just sync with your source
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Charles L on Dec 10, 2016
- Purchased on Jun 4, 2016
Sorry! the answer is no, there is no Bluetooth transmitter for headphone.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James D on Dec 6, 2016
- Purchased on May 14, 2016
Not sure I only used the bluetooth to receive a signal (from phone).
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Timothy M on Dec 7, 2016
- Purchased on May 1, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Could you recommend any subwoofer models to connect to this system?
A shopper
on Dec 26, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You will need a subwoofer that accepts speaker-level inputs and has its own cross-over (unless you plan to use a more complicated setup with something like a line-level splitter and external cross-over). You simply run speaker cables to the sub and then from the sub to the mains. Monoprice's subs are an option. See: http://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=9723 I'm using a Definitive Technology sub with NHT Superzeros using the speaker-level cross-over built in to the sub, and it sounds great.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William W on Dec 30, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 12, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You will need a subwoofer that accepts speaker-level inputs and has its own cross-over (unless you plan to use a more complicated setup with something like a line-level splitter and external cross-over). You simply run speaker cables to the sub and then from the sub to the mains. Monoprice's subs are an option. See: http://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=9723 I'm using a Definitive Technology sub with NHT Superzeros using the speaker-level cross-over built in to the sub, and it sounds great.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William W on Dec 30, 2016
- Purchased on Jul 12, 2016
The answer from William W. appears to be spot on, but his recommendation for the Monoprice sub #9723 may be overkill. This tube hybrid amplifier puts out 15 RMS watts per channel into 4 ohm speakers; about 8 RMS watts into 8 ohm speakers. The Monoprice #9723 puts out 150 RMS watts. I doubt that the two are a good combo.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen B R on Jan 8, 2017
just hooked up a klipsch sub and did not want to run speakers from sub. got a miniplug splitter to computer line out, and it worked sub works well with small bookshelf ADS speakers. am very happy with setup
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- terry h on May 23, 2017
- Purchased on Apr 30, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
Where would I get extra tubes? Walgreens?
A shopper
on Dec 27, 2016
BEST ANSWER: If you were to need to change the tubes, I have seen websites that specialize in tubes. Hit google up. There is a whole specialty niche , people refurbishing/using tube audio equipment.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Norman F on Dec 27, 2016
BEST ANSWER: If you were to need to change the tubes, I have seen websites that specialize in tubes. Hit google up. There is a whole specialty niche , people refurbishing/using tube audio equipment.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Norman F on Dec 27, 2016
eBay, Vintage Audio Equipment, otherwise any old-school stereo shop you might have in your town. There's only two left in Silicon Valley that I know of. Good Luck.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Jan 2, 2017
- Purchased on Nov 20, 2016
Definitely not Walgreens, unless we are talking toothpaste. I like tubedepot dot com.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- BARRY G. on Mar 22, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 15, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Can you. Connect wired speakers?
A shopper
on Jan 9, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Yes this is designed to use wired speakers to listen to the music. The BT is for receiving music and not for sending it elsewhere.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- John s on Jan 9, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 25, 2016
BEST ANSWER: Yes this is designed to use wired speakers to listen to the music. The BT is for receiving music and not for sending it elsewhere.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- John s on Jan 9, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 25, 2016
If you didn't use wire, then I can assure you it is the quietest amplifier ever made. (Seriously.?) If you're asking if they can be used with POWERED speakers, then my answer would be "NO". If you're talking about sending a bluetooth signal to it wirelessly, then the answer is "YES". You need to tighten up your question a bit before we can know how to help you.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- RTM on Jan 9, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 30, 2016
Yes. Pick up a pack of banana plugs and you'll be all set.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robie S on Jan 9, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 11, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
I'd like to connect this to a Subwoofer with line-level inputs. Any way to do that? Hacks?
A shopper
on Feb 12, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Thanks for your interest in this product. The 25W Stereo Hybrid Tube Amp does not have line level outputs so you cannot hook up you subwoofer. Please take a look at the 50W.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 13, 2017
Monoprice 50-Watt Stereo Hybrid Tube Amplifier with Bluetooth, Line Output, and Qualcomm aptX Audio
BEST ANSWER: Thanks for your interest in this product. The 25W Stereo Hybrid Tube Amp does not have line level outputs so you cannot hook up you subwoofer. Please take a look at the 50W.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Dave L Staff on Feb 13, 2017
Monoprice 50-Watt Stereo Hybrid Tube Amplifier with Bluetooth, Line Output, and Qualcomm aptX Audio
Just run the L/R speaker outs to the corresponding lines in on your sub. I have a similar setup with a pair of bookshelf speakers and a small sub, and it adds that extra something on the low end.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Nash H on Feb 14, 2017
- Purchased on May 8, 2016
This amp is very bass heavy to begin with and doesn't have enough power to play bookshelf speakers really loud. If you have bookshelf speakers that have a good low frequency response there is plenty of bass.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Brian S on Feb 13, 2017
- Purchased on May 11, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
Can this amp go into mono mode where I can mono block 2 ? One for each speaker?
A shopper
on Mar 25, 2017
BEST ANSWER: I think that you are trying to describe 'bridging' the Left and Right Channels to drive one speaker load. Not having access to the schematic, I would venture to say that, no, it is not possible to bridge the two channels to drive one speaker load and in the process increase the power output. If it had that capability, there would be a dedicated switch or movable jumpers to alter the signal path.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Hector J. R on Dec 5, 2017
BEST ANSWER: I think that you are trying to describe 'bridging' the Left and Right Channels to drive one speaker load. Not having access to the schematic, I would venture to say that, no, it is not possible to bridge the two channels to drive one speaker load and in the process increase the power output. If it had that capability, there would be a dedicated switch or movable jumpers to alter the signal path.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Hector J. R on Dec 5, 2017
As far as I know, the only way to go into mono mode is to connect both speakers to one side of the speaker output connection on the back of the amp. There is no mono/stereo switch.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- John S on Mar 25, 2017
- Purchased on May 7, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
on the 15W, the bluetooth input is dramatically lower (25%-ish volume drop). how's the BT input level on this one? even with the line-in?
Hunter W
on Jun 1, 2017
BEST ANSWER: The OP is talking about the 15W variant. Here I notice the much lower volume on the BT, and there is no reserve to crank up the volume to a reasonably higher level. On the bigger models, the volume can be just adjusted. You will ikley not switch frequently between the line in and the BT, so you can just adjust the level, but the 15 watter is unusable with BT.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- coder on Mar 23, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The OP is talking about the 15W variant. Here I notice the much lower volume on the BT, and there is no reserve to crank up the volume to a reasonably higher level. On the bigger models, the volume can be just adjusted. You will ikley not switch frequently between the line in and the BT, so you can just adjust the level, but the 15 watter is unusable with BT.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- coder on Mar 23, 2019
On my unit, I don't notice any perceivable volume changes between inputs.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Francisco H on Jun 1, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 30, 2016
I never experienced the BT drop issue you descried.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Accutome on Jun 1, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 11, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
To connect this amplifier with a pair of speakers, would you need two pair of the speaker wires sold here? The speaker wire I see here comes in a pair of red and black connectors. I would need to buy two of that item, correct?
Rod
on Nov 23, 2017
BEST ANSWER: You need a left pair and a right pair. Each has two wires for positive (red) and negative (black). Good quality lamp cord works well.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter H on Nov 23, 2017
- Purchased on Dec 26, 2016
BEST ANSWER: You need a left pair and a right pair. Each has two wires for positive (red) and negative (black). Good quality lamp cord works well.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter H on Nov 23, 2017
- Purchased on Dec 26, 2016
You need a two conductor wire for each speaker, just wire without connectors. The length depends on your situation.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Larry T on Nov 23, 2017
- Purchased on Dec 28, 2016
I just used regular speaker wire, some 16 gauge worked like a charm.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Jesus G on Nov 23, 2017
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2016
Vote for the best answer above!
are these tube amps bridgeable?
New User U
on Nov 23, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Not having access to the schematic, I would venture to say that, no, it is not possible to bridge the two channels to drive one speaker load and in the process increase the power output. If it had that capability, there would be a dedicated switch or movable jumpers to alter the signal path.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Hector J. R on Dec 5, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Not having access to the schematic, I would venture to say that, no, it is not possible to bridge the two channels to drive one speaker load and in the process increase the power output. If it had that capability, there would be a dedicated switch or movable jumpers to alter the signal path.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Hector J. R on Dec 5, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
Could I efficiently drive Bose 901 iv 70s speakers with this.
Will it accept Bose eq??
Will it accept Bose eq??
A shopper
on Jan 2, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Not enough power for the 901’s, don’t even try. The equalizer is not the issue; rather the 901’s are notoriously power-hungry. 75 Watts rms per channel minimum to drive them...
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alan C on Jan 2, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 5, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Not enough power for the 901’s, don’t even try. The equalizer is not the issue; rather the 901’s are notoriously power-hungry. 75 Watts rms per channel minimum to drive them...
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alan C on Jan 2, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 5, 2017
Best speakers ever made...unfortunately, I don’t think the eq is compatible— there’s only two aux outs, but the wattage should be plenty.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Earl E on Jan 2, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 14, 2017
Even if the amp had the power there are no preamp out/amp in connections to introduce the active EQ into the system.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jose R N on Jan 2, 2018
- Purchased on Aug 5, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
What are the tubes? what upgrade can I add to the tubes?
A shopper
on Jan 26, 2018
BEST ANSWER: the tubes are kind of oddities, 6p15-ev and some chinese variant of a 6922, 6n1p-ev. these aren't the exact tubes that came with the amp; the amp is actually in my weekend home in another state and i am not able to check directly and see exactly what they are, and since they aren't mainstream tubes i cannot recall exactly. But these were the ones that i purchased as direct replacements via ebay from ukraine, and was able to check my ebay purchases to find out their type. i did some research and purchased some russian mil replacement tubes that were both highly recommended, but also the only ones really available. they are basically com-block versions of el84's and 6922's, if i remember correctly the small tube is like a 6922 with a higher heater voltage. the lil amp actually sounds pretty good, and this is coming from someone who is used to listening to a $25k tubed setup: modwright tubed oppo 95> audible illusions M3a> VTL ST-150> Martin Logans. hell any single tube in my entire chain cost more than this whole unit. it's a cool little unit, i am using it to drive some modified horn hybrid speakers, to decent effect. my russian tubes have come in but i havn't been back "home" to install them and give them a try. so all thoughts or reflections are based on the shitty factory chinese tubes that came with the unit. Tube upgrades, maybe some silver teflon wire and cap upgrades, wont be lost on this little unit. hope all this helps...
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- waylon t on Jan 26, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2017
BEST ANSWER: the tubes are kind of oddities, 6p15-ev and some chinese variant of a 6922, 6n1p-ev. these aren't the exact tubes that came with the amp; the amp is actually in my weekend home in another state and i am not able to check directly and see exactly what they are, and since they aren't mainstream tubes i cannot recall exactly. But these were the ones that i purchased as direct replacements via ebay from ukraine, and was able to check my ebay purchases to find out their type. i did some research and purchased some russian mil replacement tubes that were both highly recommended, but also the only ones really available. they are basically com-block versions of el84's and 6922's, if i remember correctly the small tube is like a 6922 with a higher heater voltage. the lil amp actually sounds pretty good, and this is coming from someone who is used to listening to a $25k tubed setup: modwright tubed oppo 95> audible illusions M3a> VTL ST-150> Martin Logans. hell any single tube in my entire chain cost more than this whole unit. it's a cool little unit, i am using it to drive some modified horn hybrid speakers, to decent effect. my russian tubes have come in but i havn't been back "home" to install them and give them a try. so all thoughts or reflections are based on the shitty factory chinese tubes that came with the unit. Tube upgrades, maybe some silver teflon wire and cap upgrades, wont be lost on this little unit. hope all this helps...
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- waylon t on Jan 26, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2017
The tubes are 6N1 and 6P15. I have not tried to upgrade and don't feel a need to. It's driving four Polk Audio T15 speakers. Sounds awesome right out of the box.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert C on Jan 26, 2018
- Purchased on Aug 23, 2017
I'm unable to read the tube model numbers. I can't understand why anyone would attempt to "upgrade" the tubes. Doing so could potentially damage the unit permanently.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Brian on Jan 26, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 22, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
Is it possible to hook this unit with a vintage turntable?
A shopper
on Feb 6, 2018
BEST ANSWER: You would need an outboard phono preamp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Feb 8, 2018
BEST ANSWER: You would need an outboard phono preamp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Feb 8, 2018
You'll require a turntable pre-amplifier for a vintage turntable with a magnetic cartridge. Monoprice has a tube amplifier that does have a phono-in. https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=27222
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen B R on Feb 7, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 5, 2017
You need a magnetic cartridge preamp to do so; they run less than $20.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alan C on Feb 7, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 5, 2017
Vote for the best answer above!
Can a powered sub be used ?
A shopper
on Jul 25, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Not unless your speakers have a crossover. There is not a sub out on this unit.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David M on Jul 25, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Not unless your speakers have a crossover. There is not a sub out on this unit.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- David M on Jul 25, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
It only has left and right channels so I don't think so.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Gary F on Jul 25, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 10, 2018
No. It offers two amplified speaker outputs, that's it.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Steve S on Jul 25, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 23, 2018
Vote for the best answer above!
Questions For Similar Products