Huge Bang for the Buck! Willsenton R8 tube Integrated amp review.

[@gertjanvanderkooij9242]

I bought one and came in yesterday,and is now sounding already very good.The sound is still improving.It is a top quality tube amp.

[@mikejungle]

Your delivery is like that of a popular professor: clear, concise, and entertaining, for a subject that could be boring.

[@TuiCatNZ]

These are the type of products i want to buy from China. Well made, low tech, and from passionate small companies.

[@dougg1075]

We are all brothers in the hobby:)

[@magic3817]

Thanks Thomas! I have been patiently waiting for your impression of the R8. I have been enjoying my R8 for four months now. It’s my first tube amplifier. I have conditioned my listening room to moderate the bass somewhat. All in all I like the fat, warm sound. Lately I have been playing live recordings (Latin, rock, blues, soul) cd and vinyl and listening to classical and jazz fm radio. Hearing the room the performance took place in is a critical experience I am seeking. The R8 delivers. It has been fun tuning in the speaker placement as the 3D effect is good. I plan to keep it stock for at least a year before playing around with tube swapping. The R8 is an outstanding value! I no longer seek the latest and greatest gear. Value and performance are now my gold standard.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats on your purchase and most importantly, you are really enjoying it.

[@boysiedent6149]

IN JUST OVER ONE MONTH - I WILL BE (80 YEAR OLD) - THE SIGHT OF AN AUDIO AMPLIFIERS BUILD WITH (KT88 AND EL34 ) - ALMOST GAVE ME A / HEART ATTACK / - IN MY EARLY YEARS AS A (AUDIO TECHNICIAN) - I BUILT AND REPAIRED VERY MANY AMPLIFIERS WITH THESE OUTPUT VALVES AND ALSO (*807) - WITH THE ANODE ON TOP - WITH (GZ34) REGULATOR AND (6N7) AND PHILLIPS EL86 - ETC ETC - I ALSO MADE THE METAL CASE TO HOUSE THE TUBES - REPAIRED / REWIND BLOWN SPEAKERS - DESIGNED SUITABLE POWER SUPPLIES - MADE SPEAK ENCLOSURES - THESE VIDEOS ARE UNBELIEVABLE BECAUSE THEY HAVE BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE SOME MUCH OF MY EARLY YEARS IN THE AUDIO BUSINESS - I EVEN CAN REMEMBER TE LAST DISASTER - WHEN I TRIED TO REPAIR A 300 WATT AMPLIFIER AND MY UPPER ARM TOUCHED THE ANODE ON TOP OF TWO (807'S) - THE BURNS LASTED MONTHS - THIS WAS IN 1961 I HAVE NOT SEEN THESE BEAUTIES FOR OVER (50 YEARS) - AND WILL BE OBLIDGED TO DOWNLOAD AND / KEEP THESE EXCELLENT VIDEOS / I MOST CERTAINLY WISH THAT IT COULD BE POSSIBLE TO SEE AND HEAR THESE GEMS AGAIN - THAT WOULD CERTAINLY BE A DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE

[@vintagestereo]

This amplifier is just perfect, the sound is absolutely fantastic, I hope that willsenton will bring the same thing out with 2 huge vu meters. Than this product would be my amp forever.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, I enjoy your videos too.

[@wingedwheel2797]

Was going to buy this today but wasn’t prepared for questions they asked me about which tubes I wanted and about hand wiring? Have no idea ! I listen exclusively to classical and jazz at moderate levels. No rock. And hand wiring advantages ??? No idea ! If it makes a difference then I’m in. This is my price range , on fixed income. I know this is subjective and there is no “best” . Any advise is appreciated. Thank You !

[@Blah-blah-sure]

How this amp holding up?

[@altabriziyehya4735]

I love how you don’t wast our time and you start the video right away no ps.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, yeah I wanted to quickly answer that question.

[@terrywho22]

Funny you should say that. I enjoy hearing Thomas' opinions, but man does he drag these vids out. It's 5 min of talk/info in 15 minutes. Thank goodness for the playback speed setting in KZbin. 1.25x or even 1.5x makes these much more enjoyable.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@terrywho22 That is a good idea! Run it at faster speed.

[@terrywho22]

​@@ThomasAndStereo For sure. The info is great, its just the pace.

[@juliodejesus1532]

Thomas just saw your Willsenton R8 . You have Willsenton Kt88 and Psvane 6sn8 and 6sl7 . I changed the KT88 to Shuguang 50th Anniversary EL34. The 6sn8 to Shuguang CV181z and the 6sl7 to Tung-sol 6sl7GT. The upgrade is amazing . You must tried this combo the dynamics are thru the roof the clarity superb and the voice spot on the middle. I used to have Sonus Faber Venere 3.0 and decided to sell them. I found a pair of Boston Acoustics VR3 and WOW. I hope you can experience this sound. I have always been a tube man. Conrad Premier 12, Audio Research Classic 150. Cary Audio, Convergent technologies, Jadis Defy 7 and Pre (my favorite) but this amp and money get out of town!!!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice nice! Thanks for sharing. I do have some CV181z, let me put them in the R8.

[@54tristin]

There’s always the most professional reviews on the Internet

[@markboyd934]

Agree with you. My favorite reviewer on the internet.

[@johngerondeanos9603]

Thanks for the great revues, I ordered a Willsenton R8 from China Hi Fi in mid November and it arrived in South Africa 10 days later which is excellent service for shipping to South Africa. I had bought this on the recommendation of The next best thing, Jay, as your review had not yet aired. I am very happy with my purchase and yes I prefer the ultra linear mode. I have the stock KT88 and 6SN7 and 6SL7 tubes. The KT88 are great but I replaced the 6SN7 with NOS Raytheon 6SN7GTB and the 6SL7 with NOS SYLVANIA 6SL7WGTB. This has brought the amp to life and makes it very easy and plesent to listen to.

[@jerryjazzbo2845]

These small (but passionate) companies are showing us that the big brand names are charging consumers TOO MUCH.

[@Ninja_S1000RR-R]

I really appreciate your reviews. You speak like a real enthusiast, and not like someone in the marketing department.

[@chrismacdonald4570]

Great review as always Thomas. But in this video it was your sweater that really Moooooooooooooved me.

[@altontakata]

I bought the Willsenton R8 because of the many positive reviews. Had to be Thomas , to put all the features into perspective. Order out of Chaos. Love the way you put things Thomas. Thank You ....

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Alton, hope you are enjoying the music with it.

[@trekjudas]

IT'S ME! I'm the guy who prefers this to a Macintosh!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, thanks for sharing your story so I could include it in the video.

[@trekjudas]

@@ThomasAndStereo thank you for mentioning me!!

[@trekjudas]

@Ali miah ABSOLUTELY!!! My Harbeth speakers are somewhat smooth but they’re not dull and lifeless!!

[@dannyng5427]

I will try EL34 tubes

[@trekjudas]

@@dannyng5427 I got some relatively expensive KT88 tubes but I really prefer the EL34s.

[@ganziyang82]

Hello Thomas, I’ve not watched your videos for a long time and chanced upon this one today. Video and audio quality and your review presentation has improved so much. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Awesome, thank you!

[@robk5745]

Sounds like a really fun amp, I’ll get into tubes later on, now I leave my gear on all day everyday and have little kids so it just doesn’t fit the bill. Great Review Thomas, I always feel confident knowing what to expect with gear after I hear you talk about it 🙏

[@jonaspedersen178]

Nice rewiew, Thomas (as always). Helped me convince myself to take the plunge into the tube world with the R8. And I've not regretted it one bit. 😁👍 At some point you teased a rewiew of the Wharfedale Evo 4.4 speakers. I run those speakers with the R8, and to my ears, that is a solid combination. Does everything pretty well, and at a reasonable price - much like you described the R8. I would love to hear your thourghts on those pieces of gear together. By the way, I ordered the R8 with stock Willsenton tubes (EL34s for power). I now run new production Tung-Sol 6SN7 and 6sl7 and a quad of Genalex Gold KT77. That to me is the sweet spot between the "pure fun" stock tubes bring and more definition in highs and lows. :-) Thank you for your interesting videos - keep posting! 👍

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the feedback. Evo 4.4, yeah I asked for it but they sent me the Elysian 4 instead.

[@jonaspedersen178]

@@ThomasAndStereo I know man, have seen your Elysian review several times. Great review as well.👍 But the Elysians are somewhat out of my pricerange. "Alas, you have become too influential, or my wallet too thin". 😁

[@TorToroPorco]

Great review Thomas, your ability to articulate the nuances of this unit is invaluable. I’m glad you chose not to use the phrase giant killer otherwise I would have thrown a bowl of chicken rice at my TV (although I would have to find a recipe first). I also appreciate your criteria for choosing what devices to review. Those of us on smaller budgets don’t have the resources to try new gear on a whim and this unit being an affordable standout gives us the chance to try the tube sound without feeling buyer’s remorse.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, this amp does everything well but not excellent but that in itself is quite an accomplishment given its price. To do everything excellent would be amps costing many times its price.

[@redstarwraith]

Excellent review, Thomas. I always wonder what I'm going to learn from any reviewer who chooses to review a well-reviewed piece. Well, the times when you've been that person you have never disappointed.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the feedback and watching.

[@dinsy512]

I agree, Thomas puts in a lot of effort to come at things from different perspectives and really search for what is unique about gear.

[@gregasajn698]

Thanks to this review and to the fact that it can be used as power amp as well I bought r8. Customer service was excellent, bank transfer took only 1 day (it is cheaper to pay via bank) r8 was shipped in 1 week and it took 3 days from Honk Kong to Ljubljana. I ordered EL34 tubes and it sounds silky-smooth. Amazing product specially considering the price!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Great to hear!

[@nathanc6516]

Just purchased this amp, and I appreciate the in depth review. This gives me some things to think about while I wait for it to arrive. I think the ultralinear mode sounds better in your demo, but you didn't mention if you were using the kt88s or the el34s. Either way, thanks for getting into some good details about using it, especially about running a DAC through the pre-amp. This amp seems like it's going to be a lot of fun.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It was recorded using KT88.

[@EsotericArctos]

EL34's are warmer than the KT88's/ KT88's give better Ultra Linear performance though. I guess this is very subjective though and depends on your personal taste, the design of your room and the speakers you use. If you have a sparkly speaker that is very bright on the top, the EL34's may sound better as they are warmer. Same with using Triode wired mode vs Ultra Linear

[@jean-philippedufour2304]

“I have to do my mea-culpa, after getting in touch again with M.Lee, we felt that there was a misunderstanding during our communications. Part of that was due to missing emails. Now that everything is cleared out, M.Lee explained to me that the rubber belt or not easy to get and it would be a better choice to order the tray assembly. The MHZS cd33e was not bought from him, still he was kind enough to answer my questions and tried to help me.”

[@davidwilliams3376]

I would very much like to see a head to head with this and the Muzishare X7. Great channel - Thank you.

[@RetroworksMusic]

Me too I'm.Considering both

[@juliodejesus1532]

I also bought from CHINA HIFI . I then sold my Primaluna mono blocks and preamp. I was just not even close. I did made some tube changes and used EL34 shuguang 50 anniversary . and CV181. highly recommended. Best Bang for the $$$$$ .

[@ThomasAndStereo]

What?! You prefer this over the Prima Luna Mono blocks? Which monobloc?

[@juliodejesus1532]

@@ThomasAndStereo Mono 7s and pre 3

[@theaudiophilebarista2424]

Listening to this review via the Willsenton R8. Very good 😀

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I enjoyed your review too.

[@theaudiophilebarista2424]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you, much appreciated 👍

[@DBravo29er]

So much tuning ability with NOS 6SL7 tubes. That image can be adjusted front/back, or narrow/wide very easily with some 50’s tubes that cost less than $50/tube for tested 6SL7/VT-229 tubes.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, that is the great part about this amp, the tubes are popular and easy to find NOS.

[@trekjudas]

After watching this video I decided to put the KT88 tubes and switch to triode. The EL34 sound more exciting but the KT88s are more refined and image better.

[@melomaniacspodcast1105]

After dozens of different varieties in both the preamp and power stages, this thing really shines with Russian nos otk tubes in the preamp section and SED 6550’s in power stage. Klipsch Rp-160m speakers. Bluesound node 2i for streaming. Fluance Rt-85 turntable with Les Box Yaqin ms-23b phono preamp. Best part is the ability to roll so many types of tubes in this amp.

[@chrisgoodson9312]

I bought one of these on a wim a few weeks back after seeing a great review by another Canadian KZbinr (Yes him!) After I placed my order including shipping and Tubes upgrades it was a little north of £1000. I thought to myself, what have I just done? That's crazy! 2 Weeks later it arrived, air shipping is expensive as hell by the way. Anyway, I'm so far loving my purchase and don't regret it one little bit. I've got a feeling I'm going to be doing some tube rolling next year which could impact my wallet quite a bit. But in the meantime I'm just enjoying my purchase!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Chris for sharing your experience. Enjoy the music.

[@legrandmaitre7112]

How much was the shipping Chris? I'm also in the UK.

[@chrisgoodson9312]

@@legrandmaitre7112 2 Options Air £200.00 (days)/£90.00 by Land (Weeks)

[@kendallhuseman3685]

Interesting. Ultraliner makes it sound like there is a time decay effect. Makes it seem like it has more depth in the sound at the end. Love how you do the comparisons. I am using their Reisong Amp and I am extremely satisfied.

[@tzenlip]

Thanks again for a great review ! Someone Knowledgable in the hifi forums confirms that the pre-in does not bypass the preamp tubes . I also noticed that the noise floor is higher using pre-in mode.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the info!

[@Test-id6ns]

I appreciate your balanced style Thomas, great job again

[@JetEarlewood]

I need to read/hear about this amp driving Small Maggie’s.

[@ulrichgorlich6292]

Thank you for this review very good. I would you like to know why the Magnepan didn't work out with this amp?

[@shingnosis]

Very good and balanced review with lots of insight, this channel has come a long way.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you think so!

[@janeiroyoshi]

Great review Thomas, like always! Can you review the Willsenton 300b? im really interested in that product, but cant find any review :(

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah, maybe later as I have already 3 other amps in for review.

[@zeissiez]

You must make sure your speaker is very efficient for that amp. Otherwise the R800 is a better choice.

[@janpedersen8376]

@@zeissiez I can highly recomend the R800i 300B 805a especially with some better tubes

[@frankgeeraerts6243]

Very intelligent approach of your review of this amplifier ! UL-mode is only ultra-linear in a restricted excursion on the curves when driven by a signal on the grid of the tubes / those UL curves of a UL mode tube amplifier, when swinging beyond that limited range make the signal swing on these curves between penthode and a triode " sound " character !!! One can only optimize the characteristics/performance of an output stage for a given mode . A real triode amplifier will outclass any amp with switched mode operation. The same observations apply if the choice is given to switch between Class AB and Class A-mode on the same amplifier........Only one mode can be really/fully optimized BUT yes , one can prefer one of these modes when a choice is optional on an amplifier, ....... in function of the kind of music one is listening to ...voices; Quartet, jazz or rock , etc....you will prefer one or another operation mode......sometimes the speaker can decide the choice..... Hissing tube......to be explored ( tube or circuit) ............Nos tubes can change a lot especially on the first amplification stages..........One tube at the imput can make a HUGE difference, for better or for worse. I like your videos because they are close to what audiophiles can experience when listening....and are more realistic than numbers on glossy papers... Have a nice day.

[@seabastia]

You say 6SL7 control tonality, then what is the role of 6SN7 ? (since you decided to swap/upgrade them during your test)

[@JC-rl1fe]

Great review. I bought the R8. Arrived yesterday. So far, excellent. Looking forward to the review that you mentioned of the various tube options.

[@nolankrueger9479]

I HAVE MY R8 FOR ALMOST 1 YEAR USING THE KT88 TUBES I DO HAVE SOME MATCHING 34 TUBES BUT HAVE ON USED YET. THIS IS ON GOOD AMP. THE SOUND IS FANTASTIC.

[@MomchilNikolovPhoto]

Thomas, thank you for the detailed review! I am wondering - have you come across the Muzishare X7? Very similar price, features, build quality etc with the Willsenton R8. Would be interested to know if they are comparable in terms of sound quality, or quite different?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sorry never heard it.

[@zeissiez]

The R8 is two amps in one (KT88, EL34) while the X7 is a KT88 amp.

[@Boss-wy2ch]

Thanks Thomas, as usual you've provided another stellar review! I've had mine for a month or so now, I have not yet slid down the tube rolling slope but will do. I find the Willsenton Tubes good, but i've no experience in comparisons. I bought it with KT88s as I listen to mostly metal and some blues and bit of jazz. The bass punch of the KT88 is perfect for me. Great depth and width in soundstage and lots of air, that 3D imaging people talk about. The difference between TR/UL is night and day as you said, the vocalist is singing (yelling in my musical taste) 2 rows infront of you or situated on stage front and centre depending which mode you choose. Its fantastic. I use it with an Oppo 205 and also an ARES II for digital and for vinyl I have a few phono stages and carts that I use and its supurb on all platforms. Buying from Yong was easy and his communication was flawless, I chose sea mail as it was quite a bit cheaper and I was in no rush, from China to Australia shipping is $$$$ for a heavy beast like this...the smell of paint when I opened the box indicated to me this was a fresh amp!!!! And yes, I too am of the school that heavier somehow means quality haha, so when I nearly did my back lifting it I had positive expectations already. Will wait for the review on the tube rolling and venture down the path most suitable to my tastes. Thanks and Cheers.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I thought it smelled like glue when I first got it. The tubes that came with it is pretty decent already. Sure, if you change tubes, it will further improve it but the improvement margin is not as big as the Cayin CS55A for example.

[@ibdam1]

Thomas, have you had a chance to listen to the Decware Zen Triode Tub Amplifier? It’s around $1000.00.

[@kenwk2283]

No way 1st he does not like low power amps, second not sure 2 watts amp has enough juice for his speakers

[@matthewyih3302]

PrimaLuna is pretty overpriced as well, just look at Cayin (their OEM in China)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No I have not and it looks really cool. I think Steve reviewed it and really like it.

[@WhiteBubblySoup]

The decware may not be apples to apples because its so much less power

[@joemartin6439]

Thomas my integrated tube amp is an Audio Space AS- 3i. It main characteristic is involving boggy you along in the music. I switched EL34’s for KT- 77 and it is a dream with my Casta C Horn speakers

[@papermoonmarc]

What about the Muzishare x7? Same price point. Thats the comparison people want. Wilsenton r8 vs Muzishare x7. Inquiring minds want to know.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have never tried the X7 so I don't know but on my community page, someone broke down the difference.

[@stevenzurn8070]

I would also like to know. I have the Muzishare and I'm loving it. It's also way easier to purchase as it's shipped from Amazon's warehouse. I got mine in two days!

[@danielgrossman3956]

On the same strand of craft Chinese valve amps - I'd be really keen to see you review the Line Magnetic LM-34IA!!

[@rhwinner]

I had a big powerful tube amp for many years so I have some experience to share. If you're the kind of person who likes to leave his amp on all day or all night be prepared to be buying tubes frequently. And the ones that burn out quickest are the big expensive power tubes. On a push pull amp they have to be replaced in pairs, costing at least $60 for the pair or $120 for the full complement. And I'm not even talking about boutique tubes, which the sky's the limit. Just be prepared to open your wallet frequently to replace these tubes.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, one of the downside of owning amps is the tubes need to be replaced. For someone who always keep their amp on, solidstate might be a better solution. I think these tubes can last for a few thousand hours so for normal use, its reasonable.

[@DBravo29er]

I think it depends on the exact amp design and how high the designer runs the plate voltage. I have a few friends like you who experienced short tube life. But I have many others that experience more than 20k hours/tube without issue.

[@DBravo29er]

@Douwe Bloot I leave my Line Magnetic LM805IA on for about 12 hours a day. Playing music during the day and watching TV at night. Have many friends with LM845IA amps (using 845 output tubes) or the 805 tubes like mine (both made by PS Vane for LM) that have over 10k hours with ZERO bias adjustments required. That’s 2.2 years of 12hrs/day operation. Agree with Thomas that solid state would likely be easier for those who leave their stuff on 24/7. However, understand that electrolytic capacitors are going to start needing attention at the 10k hour mark if they are in the cheaper side, 85C rated, or both. Many data sheets for 85C caps show ratings in the 2500 hour range.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

I leave my tube amp on 24/7, haven't changed a tube in 4yrs

[@rhwinner]

@@crazyprayingmantis5596 You must have magic tubes!

[@jram9571]

Excellent amp with good looks to match. Sounds great with my Harbeths. Highly recommend

[@zeissiez]

May I know which Harbeths model did you refer to ?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

My apologies for deleting comments where people expressed their political views. This is not a channel for that. We are here as passionate audiophiles. Non affiliated link : www.china-hifi-audio.com/en The preamp I used that changed the sound was Burmester and Moon P5.3. The Freya did not change the sound a lot. You can try with you DAC to see if there is a difference but an external preamp should make more of a difference. Please share your experience of your R8.

[@andrewyoungblood5434]

How does it compare to the Cayin CS-55A? Is that amp worth the extra money?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@andrewyoungblood5434 The Cayin is a more neutral with better definition in the bass but lacks the balls of the R8. For some people, the Cayin will be boring relatively speaking. For people who want to hear more 'detail' and want more refinement, the Cayin is better. Cayin is like wine while R8 is like beer. Keep in mind the Cayin has a built-in Phono stage and DAC so the price difference, although big is not that big.

[@andrewyoungblood5434]

@@ThomasAndStereo great thank you so much for the detailed reply. I enjoy learning from you!

[@andrewyoungblood5434]

Is there a Cayin alternative tube amp without the dac/phono stage perhaps? I don’t need those built-in. I’ve reviewed there whole line up but it was confusing for me...:)

[@fishingbear69]

@@ThomasAndStereo now ,now can one place kt88 tubes on the cayin or kt 150s ? Wen you stated that the cs-55 A cayin could be a little boring ,but are you not referring as with the stocked tubes it comes with only ? Or im i wrong ?, thanks tomas nice video.,,and I have heard alot of good talks on the raven tube amps, nighthawk, and there Blackhawk as well ?

[@AMan-wu8eg]

Those Q Acoustics look incredible in silver! I have them in black, and regret not getting those... Superb speakers!

[@tbear2327]

I own them in black too. A dusting nightmare, but the sound is so so good.

[@kouichi4]

Just want to share that grado hemp headphones sound really good on R8.

[@jonshimamoto2710]

On a side note, I am using four NOS GE EL134 along with three vintage French Neotron 6SN7s. I am still looking around for 6SL7 replacements.

[@noahhill1380]

Hey Thomas, great review. So I purchased the Willsenton 300b tube amp because of all the glowing (pun intended) reviews of the R8 and holy mole!! I was blown away, if you haven't heard this amp you owe yourself a listen asap!

[@noahhill1380]

I should also add I have owned a Primaluna Dialogue 2 for 12 years and was still impressed!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the info! Glad you enjoy it, 300B is like one of the best for vocals.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Wow, that really says a lot.

[@CUDAbuster]

Great review. Nice that you introduced a decent product that a lot of people probably didn't know about and gives an adorable way to try a tube setup.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, it is crazy how much performance we can get today with a reasonable budget.

[@CUDAbuster]

I think that tube amp would sound phenomenal on my Cornwall IIIs. I always preferred the sound of tube amps, but liked the reliability of solid state. With today's DACs and solid-state, the holographic sound of a tube amp can be closely, simulated, but you are stuck with that sound unlike an actual tube amp you can roll. My favorite one is the MC275 based on looks and sound, but that's a 7K+ beast. I agree that weight equals grades (at least that is what one professor always reminded us before turning in a report). Nice that they can build this budget tubie that stout.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@CUDAbuster Man, I would love to try the MC275 one day.

[@BryanTorok]

When I was growing up, tubes were on their way out and nobody was really sorry to see them go. The goal was to reproduce sound sound as accurately as possible without adding, subtracting, or coloring the music, to get as close to the live performance as possible. Then, if it was necessary to tune the response (or even to adjust for taste) there were bass, sometimes midrange, and treble controls. If one wanted to get crazy, one could get a graphic equalizer with up 19 frequency bands. When I started out, there was Hi-Fi, then came stereo, then stereo with a middle channel, then quadraphonic, then surround sound 5.1 and THX. Still, the idea was to make one feel like they were in a live music venue, whether a concert hall or a smaller setting like a pub. Somewhat later, there was the shift from analog (vinyl) to digital (compact disc) and later compact disc with compression (mp3, etc.). With enough bits, a high enough sampling rate, and really good quality (low phase shift) ADC and DAC, it is impossible to tell the difference by ear (except for the LACK of the noise and distortion inherent in vinyl) and nearly impossible to tell even with electronic measurement devices. So, now you all want to go back to having coloration to the music that for decades we were trying to get rid and spending thousands of dollars to do so. I can't help but be amused. Get a high end solid state amp and DAC, add a control board with parametric EQ and adjustable attack and delay, and you can color your sound any way you like it.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well I already have multiple high-end solid-state amps with EQ and many high-end DAC. I guess people come back to vinyl and tubes because of the sound. Keep in mind people probably left tubes because of all the hassles but technology has improved and tubes are so simple to maintain now. As a result, I guess people are coming back to it because, for some people, the goal is to create an experience that is pleasant to their ears as opposed to trying to go for that neutral presentation.

[@BryanTorok]

@@ThomasAndStereo So you are saying that there is something about a tube amplifier sound that you can not get or recreate in solid state? It has been decades since I had a tube amp (a Knight amplifier, 24 tubes, 80 W per channel, which I do wish I still had). So, I'll have to visit a local audio dealer and see if they have a tube system I can listen to.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@BryanTorok There are many things SS amp can do that tube amps cannot. For example, tight control of the bass. Sure, tube has improved a lot and has reached the point where it is good enough when it comes to bass control for example. If you take a tube amp $1k vs a solidstate $1k, you will not get the same holographic image. You probably have to go to $3k solidstate to get the same. Now, the problem is many tube amps today sound like solidstate and that is why it is important to audition a lot of tube amps before drawing any conclusions.

[@BryanTorok]

@@ThomasAndStereo In Cleveland, Ohio, we had a high end audio dealer (Audiocraft) with a main store downtown and several stores in the suburbs. They had rooms set up with a couple of dozen system and comfortable chairs so one could compare turntables, receivers, amps, speakers, etc. I was upset, but not terribly surprised, to find that all the stores are gone and they have become a high end home theater and automation consultant, seller, installer doing almost exclusively in home or in business selling. While Best Buy and the like may carry some decent consumer level audio equipment, I really doubt that they are going to have $1,000 tube amps. So, I don't know where I'm going to go to hear and compare higher end equipment. Even if I ended up buying something more affordable, it was nice to look at the higher end stuff and have a basis for comparison.

[@audiomacaudiomac5019]

Have you tried using your Freya connected to this as an amp? To me, it sounds very balanced. The bass is tight and defined. My only problem is I get a little tiny hum, I think from the Freya. I tried different power conditioners but it would not go away. What should I try next?

[@TheTruth-dm8wd]

So I have the R8 with EL34s and currently is incorporated into a vintage Marantz system so just using the amp section from the R8. Is paired up with the Marantz 3650 and all together sounds fantastic. Obviously a different more pleasant and fun sound than when I use the Marantz 300DC with the 3650 with all other components the same but. I ran the R8 by itself on the same speakers using all it's functionality so appears that the pre-amp section is the R8's weakness out of the box. I also ran the R8 amp section with my McIntosh C22 preamp and is not a fair comparison with the far superior (far more expensive) MC275 MKVI. The R8 is a great value, very enjoyable and I can listen to it for hours without fatigue. Looking forward to experimenting with other tubes and experience the differences.

[@lutzhennecke6929]

I'm using the octave V40SE and now I'm using the power tube KT88 from PSVANE MK2. For the preamp the tubes are already exchanged. The difference to the original is huge and a nice and simple thing with the Octave. The tubes can be adjusted easily with a potentiometer. But I would like to try the KR Audio KT88 again with the next change. Best regards from Germany.

[@vespass225]

Hi Thomas! Have you by any chance tried out the Line Magnetic LM-216iA ? ( 4 KT88:s, push pull. ). I guess it would be directly competing with the Willsenton R8, at a very attractive price point, and exceptionally well built and designed. 836$ at China-hifi.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No I have not. One day.

[@garymoore3497]

I was looking for my next amplifier project when I saw this. Yes, is very affordable. I still might build one with design upgrades, including variable control from full triode mode to full ultra linear mode. Also, use bias adjust from KT88 to other power tubes not required. combination bias circuit can automatically accommodate this range of output tubes.......I also notice no BITE (Built-In-Test) on this rig either.....

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

You keep getting better with your reviews😊 SERIOUSLY Maybe someday I will be able to try a tube amp This might be the one😊

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks! Yeah one day you should give it a try.

[@turhanwoo]

I purchased r8 with kt88 just for curiosity.I am using Luxman sq38u for the past 15 years purchased at US$2300. Luxman is using 4 EL 34 tubes. I did a sound comparison with both using Speaker TAD tsm300 and LS3/5a. And found that they sound exactly same. I am a little surprised 😂.

[@joelnorris4064]

Thomas, great review! I agree with your assessment of the sound and problems. I love my R8 and use it often. When I want more detail, I rotate in a solid state amp. The ability to roll tubes makes this amp change on a regular basis. I think of this as a pinot noir, the flavor changes every time you roll a tube. This allows changing tubes instead of buying a new amplifier. Your comments on preference is the most important for our hobby! Everyones ears are different.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing!

[@HoomanR17]

Joel, I'm asking this question as a novice, can you tube roll this amp to match your solid state amp in terms of detail?

[@joelnorris4064]

@@HoomanR17 Probably not! I can get close, but the loss of harshness and the 3 D sounds makes the tube amp frequently more enjoyable to listen to. My solid state amps are also much more expensive. If your budget allows, get a tube and a solid state amp and enjoy both. I am running two systems at all times so it is easy for me. I have a second tube amp which is 5 times more expensive and the Willsenton sounds better to me. The Willsenton with a good front end makes a beautiful sound with good detail and tone.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@HoomanR17 Detail is not an issue with tube gear. Floor noise and bass control is where solid state has an edge but not detail.

[@HoomanR17]

@@ThomasAndStereo helpful for someone like me who has yet to experience Tube amplification.

[@daveb9930]

I've had my R8 for almost a year now and I'm just getting into tube rolling. I ordered the set of pre amp tubes from China Hifi recommended by Mr. Lee { Looks like he sent you the same set } The new tubes have about 20hrs. on them and the soundstage is really starting to open up. New Kt88 power tubes should be arriving any day. Looking forward to your next video.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Was it he 6SL7? I find it sharper and more clarity.

[@daveb9930]

I installed the two Shu Guang WE6SL7 Plus tubes and the three Psvane CV181-Tii tubes at the same time so I don't know how each set of tubes affected the sound on their own. When I get a chance I'll stick the stock 6SL7's back in and see. Right now I'm enjoying the sound of my records so much I don't want to change anything. LOL@@ThomasAndStereo

[@slowestrider4918]

@@daveb9930 Would you share how you like the Psvan and Shuguang? More dynamic? Lower noise? TIA.

[@Toogoodtobetrue458]

I think u blew up their website- it was down a little bit 😂, good vid.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Lol. Thanks.

[@Nightjar726]

Love your videos. The way you articulate and present. Very good. I have a Rega amp and a pair of Proac DT8’s. I would like to try a tube amp but with my OCDness from my guitar tube amps I’m afraid I’m going to spend most my time swapping and rolling tubes. I will try a stereo tube amp one day for sure tho.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, one day when you are ready.

[@moon-light1354]

Thanks Thomas for another great review, I been reading about the R8 for some time now and your take on this amp confirms what I have been reading, If I purchase this I will be running it with my Freya + that you also reviewed, Looking forward to your tube video on the R8. Thanks...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Interestingly when I tried it with the Freya, the difference is not that big. It was with my Burmester preamp that made the biggest difference. Loic was using a Moon preamp with it.

[@moon-light1354]

Hey Thomas, what's your take on the WILLSENTON R-300B SINGLE-ENDED INTEGRATED TUBE AMPLIFIER FULLY BALANCED CLASS A, This unit has balanced XLR that I could utilize with my Freya +. The 300 B cost a little more but I'm not sure if it's worth it or not. Thanks..

[@bebbop]

How does the Willsenton R8 compare to the Galion A75? Comparable sound quality, or one is definitely better than the other?

[@thestatuary9655]

Hi Thomas, I think its about time for a side by side comparison and review of the R8 vs the Muzishre X7. And it is you who can make justice to the R8 vs X7 comparo. Thanks.

[@pnojazz]

So I’ve had about 4 weeks with the R8. I upgraded the tubes to Gold Lion KT88’s, Tung Sol 6SL7’s, and Psvane CV181’s. I didn’t even sample the stock tubes. I’m impressed with the amp and it’s breaking in nicely. I’m driving Martin Logan Summits, not the simplest load, but I’ve rarely had the amp turned up above 11 o’clock. The amp has more than enough tubes to drive my Logan’s. The price increase was in effect as my amp was $1275 delivered. With the upgraded tubes it $1850. Not cheap, but not ultra expensive either. I’m satisfied. BTW, to all newbies buying this amp you’ve got to hold down the bias switch with one hand as you use your other to turn the bias screw. That wasn’t in the manual!! But I found the info on an audio forum that had 60 pages dedicated to the R8. Enjoy!

[@lastgodstanding5634]

Would this be a good choice for martin logan motion 12

[@SimanSlivar]

Yeah tbh at its price now its competing with tube amps it wasn't designed too...

[@jonshimamoto2710]

OOC, have you tried other tubes in the R8? If so, which ones made the biggest improvement. Are you planning to make a video on the different tubes for the R8 like you mentioned in this video? I would be greatly interested in that if you do make it. I got the Psvane KT88-T MK II and CV181-T MK II tubes and was disappointed in that combo. It was better than the stock Willsenton tubes but definitely not worth the several hundred dollars. The four NOS GE EL34s sounds a lot more musical with a more holographic image. It may be warmer and looser in the bass but it is much better in my ears. I also tried a set of reissued Mullard EL34s and they sound the same as the GEs. I am awaiting my final set of tubes, the Psvane EL34-PH and 6SN9-UK. I may also get the Electro Harmonix 6CA7 tubes which appears to be very under-rated. Any thoughts? Thanks again.

[@johnsweda2999]

hi, You can use kt77 as a straight swap for el34 plus you could put a solid Bridge rectifier in a tube instead of the the valve rectifier will strengthen up the bass make it faster sounding overall do you know what it's THD is in both settings

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, I need to try that one day.

[@linmi9472]

great review, I think this is the product for more experienced audiophile than hifi newman.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would say this is a good entry point for those who want to experience tube because it has 'everything'.

[@zeissiez]

I agree with Thomas. This is a good amp that happens to be at a fairly low price.

[@joemartin6439]

I need A Dac for rock , folk beach boys , Deep Purple. I have a CD trance port . Bought the Aune X8

[@dangoh2237]

I find that triode is more tube-like whereas the Utralinear is more solid-state sound. I love triode more!

[@goldenearaudioreview4904]

Oh, that is exciting. I really want to try tubes out but haven't wanted to spend the premium on the really expensive gear.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, at $1k ish, I think it is 'affordable' but you do get a lot for the money.

[@shanec6664]

Have you considered a tube pre amp first ? I was thinking the same might get a project tube box s2

[@hbchristmas5352]

Willsenton R-35I EL34 I have this model. I think it is great for the money. Extremely quite even with my tekton Moab at 99db.

[@piphelix2517]

Damn!! My man’s got a new camera, a new house, AND a new sweater! 🔥

[@lampham244]

Is it matched well with KEF R3. Thanks

[@thevintageaudiolife]

Thank you for sharing, very interesting and informative, just uploaded a few of my hand crafted tube Amps. I enjoy learning more about the world of tube Audio!

[@tim551920]

Hi Thomas, thanks for the great review. you are absolutely right about adding a pre amp. I plugged in my Rega Elex r and the bass speed tightened up but i loss on holographic imaging e.g girl from ipanema finger snaps no longer sound as if coming from my left shoulder & vocals "live" like gone too. I ve upgraded to psvane 6sl7, stock kt88 running into a sonus faber/rel setup. I am chasing that tube live like sound but with better bass control. I ll try your next suggestion to upgrade the kt88... 😉

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Maybe try EL34. You get less bass but gain control at the same time. In theory, you can try running your KT88 with EL34 switch setting. I think the idea is it will drop the voltage, with less bass, you might gain control. However, please email and ask them before doing it since I would not be responsable for any damages.

[@tim551920]

I ve tried triode after the initial addiction to msg of UL. After listening to triode, u r right better bass definition. Now using triode more. Thanks i ll email Lee on el34

[@chelsea21092]

Hi Thomas Very pleased with the sound of my R8 and the exemplary customer service from China Hi-Fi. Stock tubes btw are pretty reasonable, but swapped them all out for a complete set of Tung-Sol's with excellent results. Also love the practicality of the built in biasing option...it just makes complete sense. Using amp with Aune S8 dac with op-amp rolled to Sonic Imagery Labs Model 994Enh with wonderful results. Just waiting for my upgraded Aune power supply now for the icing on the cake. Just shows you don't have to spend a fortune on esoteric gear to get truly outstanding results. Not sure if I need to explore KT88 option (but I probably will).

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, the KT88 will give you a completely different sound so definitely worth trying in the future. Do you mean AUNE X8? I think the S8 cannot change op amps. I just got the S8 in for review and really impressive.

[@chelsea21092]

@@ThomasAndStereo Yep...apologies its the X8

[@weeverob]

Thomas, you're hot on this amp and next week you'll be releasing your review on the Doge 10 tube amp. Will you compare the Doge 10 to the Willsenton? Thanks

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes I will, they are voice differently but the Doge 10 is one or two level up. Well it is almost double the price.

[@1968krug]

Thomas great vid thank you. I’ve watched a lot of your clips, no doubt in my mind you’re excited about this amp. I wonder what kind of speakers would be the best match for this amp?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

There is no best match but in theory, the more efficient the speaker the better chance of a good match you get.

[@engsityong6043]

I like EH EL34 Triode mode in this amp, but the bass control and overall clarity are not good enough, and I put in the Synergetic Research Blue fuse, it makes a day and night different, no more bass issue. Better than changing the 6SL7 tubes

[@RumblestripDotNet]

Did the R8 just not have enough juice to power the LRS well? You glossed over that fairly quickly.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

If you push the volume, you will hear distortion. You can only listen to it at normal 'low' volume with the LRS.

[@shingnosis]

Tubes are rarely a good match for panels, you can sometimes do it but it's largely to be expected. Tubes are good at delivering voltage swings quickly and seamlessly, they are less good at providing raw amps. A good setup for panels is typically SS amp and a tube preamp. If you go big panels and tubes you're typically going to need a lot of tubes... expensive and hot to run.

[@dannyng5427]

R8 can drive my 1.7i to a reasonable volume. I could be wrong I think 1.7i can sound louder than LRS with the same amount of power because the surface is bigger.

[@RumblestripDotNet]

@@shingnosis One of the best systems I've ever heard was a full tube Audio Research system running some Maggie 20 point somethings. When he switched over to a Rogue Audio Chronus Magnum 2 there was a dropoff, but not much.

[@Tahitian58]

Thomas why did you not change the 6SN7 tubes for NOS like you did in the Schiit Freya+? Thank you for all you do!

[@toddhupp]

Interesting use of 1930s era tubes other than the c 1956 KT88s.I wonder what their thinking was? vs 12au7s as an example

[@teotuckseng7721]

Hi Thomas, is this Willsenton R8 good for pop songs too (eg. Songs like Westlife, Boyzone, etc)? As I know, tube amplifiers are normally good for vocal, but not pop songs. Do you recommend KT88 or EL34 if both vocal & pop songs are played on this R8? Thanking you in advance.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The older tube amps are good for vocals but not too good with bass. The new tube amps have no problem with bass. In fact, as I mentioned in this video, the bass is a bit much which a lot of people love. Pop song will have no problem. KT88 will give you more bass, EL34 will give you better vocals.

[@teotuckseng7721]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you Thomas, you mean the older tubes are EL34 and KT88 are new tubes ?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@teotuckseng7721 No I meant the older tube amps are not too good with bass. The newer tube amps, regardless of using EL34 or KT88 will give you plenty of bass with KT88 giving you more.

[@teotuckseng7721]

Thank you very much for your kind info and prompt reply

[@Activation1111]

Great video. Could you review on OMA Speakers, Amps & turn tables. As well as Fleetwood Sound Co speakers, turn tables & Amps. I like your show & reviews. Thank you.

[@davidnewboult6887]

Would love to hear your opinion on the Muzishare R7, ok it is a little bit more expensive, but in the same ballpark: Shame you did not try the Willsenton with 6550 tubes, having listened to many comparisons on YT, it's a tube I really like, at times more like a 300B: Sounds like I'm complaining, not really it was another great video and demonstration at the end Thanks

[@pauljongen1621]

I concentrate on hybridamplifiers that bring the typical tube sound with the power of transistors in the output. Is much profitable in energy costs and better for the environment.

[@pharoahamunra]

the great thing about tube rolling.if you get an overall sound you like.but it doesnt have quite the bass punch.you can simply add a subwoofer or two.im all solid state at the moment,but im thinking tubes again.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I always think we should have both if we have the space and budget for it.

[@itsGnTO]

Hi Thomas, amazing reviews always. I purchased the Sound Artist S5B from China HiFi as a test to see the quality before I purchase the R8. These speakers sound great but not as good as the Walsh Ohms at medium to high volume. R8 will be ordered this week..... George

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Hope it lives up to your expectation.

[@christinearmington]

Can these tubes drive the Ohm Walsh?

[@mphosikhosana3685]

Great review as usual. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Please review the Icon Audio Stereo 60.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

If they reach out to me.

[@gilbertyambao4776]

Thomas another question, im planning to buy KT88 Tubes, for spare in case someday Willsenton Tubes not working anymore, can i bought other brand not Willsenton Tubes brand, is it all KT88 Tubes from other brand are compatible with Willsenton R8 Intergrated Amplifier? Thank you again

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Any KT88 brand will work with it.

[@garyloo819]

For those of you who have purchased the R8, were you able to compare the Willsenton KT88 against the more expensive Psvane KT88-TII power tubes? Also did you order the R8 with the Psvane CV181-TII tubes versus the Willsenton 6SN7 for the pre-amp section? Or do you think just save the money, get the stock Willsenton tubes and concentrate on rolling out the 6SL7 tubes later?

[@st.michael9708]

Hi Gary, if my Answer is not to late ..... I bought my R8 with Stock Tubes, but I replaced them all, because the Willsenton branded Tubes sounded grainy in the Mids & Treble, but for the Price of the R8 you can not expect top nutch Tubes for free in the Amp. I have made good a Expierience with the JJ E34L and JJ EL34MK2 Tubes, they are both very different, so read the Sound Discription of the Manufacturer for each Tube carefully ! In the UK is one matched Quad ( 4.Tubes ) for around GBP 80.- aviable. And for the PreAmp Section I have made good expirience with Russian NOS Tubes, they are cheap on ebay, but they look not so fancy as the quite expensive China Tubes. but I doubt that the Chinese Tubes sound much better ..... if they sound better at all ( ? ). This is possably the least expensive and most effective Upgrade possable ! Start with the Power Tubes and the 6SL7, the three 6SN7 at last. The R8 is based on a old LEAK 5.20 what suggest it will sound better with the EL34, so if You not need to feed inefficiend Speakers what need lots of Power, go for the EL34 from JJ or other Brands.

[@audio_friend]

Hi Thomas thank you so much for your great review! After this video I am really considering purchasing this amp. Do you think it would make a good match with a pair of Wharfedale Lintons' or would it sound better with a more modern sounding speaker like Borea BR08? Is there any speaker you would suggest in the same price range for a good sound stage/detail balance?!

[@jonshimamoto2710]

Thomas, I noted that in your video you commented that the 6SL7 makes the biggest difference in the sound. Do you not mean the 6SN7? The video shows the three 6sn7s were swapped with PSVane CV181-T MK II tubes while the power tubes remained the stock Willsenton KT88 as well as the stock 6SL7. Please clarify otherwise. Thank you. BTW, I love all your videos.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The 6SL7 and the 6SN7 make the same amount of differences. However, the differences does not sum up. Meaning, 6SL7 alone improve the clarity by 10%. 6SN7 improves the clarity by 10%. However if you change both 6SL7 and 6SN7, it will improve the clarity only by 12% instead of 20%.

[@jonshimamoto2710]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks for the information. So far, I have only changed the stock 6SL7 to Tung-sol reissues (new 6SL7s are surprisingly difficult to find right now, only the JJs and the Mullards are readily available). I was surprised at how much the soundstage had expanded. I ordered the PSVane KT88-TMK II as well as the PSVane CV181-T MK II but am still awaiting for its arrival. How much of a difference do you think will these tubes make over the stock Willsenton KT88s or the Willsenton EL34s? Thanks again.

[@thomaswipf7986]

Thomas, please talk about Tidal vs Spotify compression. It may be a partial reason I had a poor (artifical/wonky) experience w/ D90. Perhaps it was showing me compression too much- poorly. Burson handled compression fine, but sounds even more fantastic on Tidal!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Did you sign up for the high res one? Did you try and with tidal?