The BEST Amplifier Award ! Willsenton R800i Tube Integrated amplifier Review !

Willsenton R8 was a great amplifier and won the Best amplifier award. What can the bigger, higher-end Willsenton R800i tube integrated amplifier bring to the table?
Willsenton R800i: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/w...
OR
on amazon: amzn.to/35HeTiW
Related videos:
KEF home theatre setup guide and giveaway: • HOW TO Set up a 5.1.2 ...
Willsenton r8 review: • The Best Amplifier Awa...
tubes I use and recommend for upgrade:
psvane acme 805: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/p...
psvane CV181-TII: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/p...
psvane we274B: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/p...
choose one based on what I said in the video:
psvane western electric 300b replica: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/p...
OR
psvane acme 300b: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/p...
Speaker stands: amzn.to/3ssRhI3
Better speaker stands: solidsteel.it/my-product/ss-7...
acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/
acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM
BDI Cabinet I use: bit.ly/2OJRwQQ
amzn.to/3chBuFZ
other BDI Cabinets: bit.ly/3ctxXV1
amzn.to/30bsUCH
This video is not sponsored
for more info on how we work:
nbtsmedia.com/about-us/
PATREON: / nbts
Instagram: / nbtstudio2017
Facebook: / next-best-thing-studio...
Twitter: / nbtstudio2017
#tubeamplifier #hifi #audiophile

[@Jayiyagi]

Related videos: KEF home theatre setup guide and giveaway: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZW4m4qph7aXl7M Willsenton r8 review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4mwoX6pp6uLfMU tubes I use and recommend for upgrade: psvane acme 805: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/psvane-vacuum-tube-electron-valve-c-32/psvane-acme-805-vacuum-tube-hi-end-best-match-one-pair-vavle-p-2142 psvane CV181-TII: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/psvane-vacuum-tube-electron-valve-c-32/psvane-t-series-cv181-tii-collection-version-hifi-amplifier-vacuum-tube-a-pair-p-1205 psvane we274B: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/psvane-vacuum-tube-electron-valve-c-32/psvane-we274b-vacuum-tube-40s-replica-1-1-5u4g-5z3p-rectifying-p-717 choose one based on what I said in the video: psvane western electric 300b replica: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/psvane-vacuum-tube-electron-valve-c-32/psvane-we300b-plus-western-electric-replica-tubes-best-matched-pair-valve-300b-p-1486 OR psvane acme 300b: www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/psvane-vacuum-tube-electron-valve-c-32/psvane-acme-300b-vacuum-tube-hi-end-vavle-best-match-one-pair-p-2143 Speaker stands: amzn.to/3ssRhI3 Better speaker stands: solidsteel.it/my-product/ss-7-vintage-hi-fi-speaker-stands/ acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/ acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM BDI Cabinet I use: bit.ly/2OJRwQQ amzn.to/3chBuFZ other BDI Cabinets: bit.ly/3ctxXV1 amzn.to/30bsUCH This video is not sponsored for more info on how we work: nbtsmedia.com/about-us/

[@ryanbarden7474]

What would you recommend for rock or neofolk type music? 805 or 845? It says 805 has more power out put but 845 is better on vocals. I’m really considering this amplifier but I want to make sure it will play my music the way I want it to be heard. Chelsea Wolfe. Kind dude. A few artists.

[@reserva120]

What do you never List the Speakers you use to listen too??? rather strange.

[@reserva120]

is this the 805 or the 845 ??

[@hbaboris]

Nice video as always...which tubes do you recommend for this amplifiers ( I mean brands ) ? Which ones are you using ?

[@maxc7903]

GReat stuff. I am bit confused. How Willsenton R800i (300b) compare to BoyuuRange A50 MKIII 300B in terms of vocals? Would it be similar with just power output difference? Can you help?

[@joyoffilming9500]

Great review and strong statement in favor for tube amps which I totally agree with! Just switched from a very good Tannoy TA600 to a small power LM-211. What a leap forward for my Sonus Faber Cremona V1. And, regarding bass (I prefer the triode setting) I would recommend taking advantage of either a parametric EY or speaker management or similar to adjust the bass to the room - and bang, you will get a disco-ready bass from even a triode or SET amp with low reaching precision, but still this musicality you are describing for the mid range. Just a week ago, I had a late evening listening session, and I had left the balcony door unintentionally open - guess what, the neighbor rang my door bell as they couln’t get into sleep at their house which is more than 45 feet away - and all from 15 Watt triode power. And a comment was “It sounded at our home as if you had a live band playing in your home!” never had this with my TA600 at a max of 2x300 Watts. What If I had this beautifully 805 amp? Probably they would have called the police right away?

[@JC-ig4xy]

Thank you for the review! I've actually been looking for a review on this amp for the past few days!

[@peace-yv4qd]

What I enjoy most about tubed gear and glow of the tubes is tube rolling. The fact that you can improve or change the sound by rolling the tubes is something you can't do with solid state amplifiers except perhaps adding a DAC, cables and different speakers etc.

[@bclu7343]

Nice, will be great to review Doge 10 together with this as the price is almost the same with stock tubes for these two ! Also tube rolling will be expensive for R800i if tube rolling is the thrill for some ! Great review!

[@piotradamowicz1088]

Fantastic review Jay. Many thanks. I've been using only SS amps so far but after watching your video I am in urge to try tube gear, maybe R800i. Keep up good work.

[@joshuaschneck]

Thanks Jay for this long-awaited video. I guess I'm in the small percentage of viewers who purchased an R8 (matched with Tekton Electron SEs) and was pretty underwhelmed. I did change the tubes to nice EL34s and other quality tubes up front which did help. But, overall, I find the sound of the R8 a little harsh and lacking sweetness in the mid and high range. It's certainly a clean sounding amp, but not that engaging for me. I think I prefer the class A sound which is why this amp is intriguing. Also considering a Elekit tu-8600 300B amp. Any thoughts on how these two amps would compare? The Elekit is much lower power (9 watts per channel)

[@2HatHudders]

Looking forward to this. Love my R8, not going to upgrade but it's great to see they are not a 1 hit wonder

[@gg0297]

My man prepared his head for the heat! 😄👍 Great review, as always.

[@gaborozorai3714]

Great review. One comment: when reviewers say that a tube amp does not image as precisely as a SS one I always think " sure, you get fatter, fleshed out images, like the real thing." You get that spaciousness that you correctly identify, filled with 3D images of instruments. To me that's better, more natural than pinpoint (i.e. narrow) images.

[@Jayiyagi]

I agree ! But solid states have sharper imaging and some people like that more so gotta give credit where its due !

[@gregsaddie]

All electronics distort truth. The only reason for music reproduction at all is for emotional elevation. The best tube designs BLOW AWAY solid state for involvement, goosebumps and the illusion of something live happening in the room with you. The best solid state I've heard have been YBA signature.. but nothing else solid state, for me gets closer to good SET. We listen to music, not sound. Close your eyes and transport without analysis. God bless great single ended direct heated triode designs and the speakers that let them shine...

[@damianzaninovich4900]

You described what you’re hearing very well. Enjoying the music not thinking about analyzing the gear. I get the same feeling with the Doge 10. Now that you have no hair, is the sound defracting more around your head or has a veil been lifted?

[@Jayiyagi]

Hahaha. Less dampening ! ;)

[@robertwang7825]

I just got this a few days back , pairing it with the Denafrips Pontus 2 and Kef LS50 meta. I changed the 6SN7 to PSVane Mk2 and connects with Mogami good XLR. It’s amazing , very good recommendation , spot on. Thanks Jay. Your reviews are credible. Very enjoyable amplifier.

[@justingriffin2546]

Mogami gold XLR-i is that a mike cable? can i ask is it to connect the dac to the amp-, i'm getting an almost identical system hope your still loving it....

[@robertwang7825]

@@justingriffin2546 Yes to connect DAC to amp via balanced output. Yes loving the results , I added the Iris DDC and I2S ( Jays Audio ) connection to the DAC , changed the 300B and 805 tubes and added a Rel T5X sub and IsoAcoustic Gaia3 ( highly recommended) to the spkr stands. I think I’m done with all upgrades for now and just enjoy the music.

[@justingriffin2546]

@@robertwang7825 Thanks so much. i'm so looking forward to the upgrade i'm looking at the kef reference 3---supposed to be amazing and beautiful. to look at..

[@robertwang7825]

@@justingriffin2546 I dont the Willsenton has enough power to push the Kefs R3 , better with Tekton or Klipsch or open baffles IMO.

[@justingriffin2546]

​@@robertwang7825 wow thanks-...I made a mistake, i meant the reference 1 meta bookshelf speakers-do you think the Willsenton can drive those?

[@TuneHead]

Sure would love to hear what a tube amp sounds like. Unfortunately with everything online sales these days I guess we are left to reviews like yours, then a gamble purchase. Then also a gamble purchase if you want to try different tubes (which I understand is half the fun with tube gear). Thanks for the review Jay.

[@janpedersen8376]

Agree pretty much with everything in Jay’s review except the bass. With stock 805’s yes but try the PS Vane Cossor 805’s those tighten up the bass and it feels like they also dig deeper. I have had mine for about a year now i am extremely impressed with the performance.

[@Jayiyagi]

Thank you for the input ! I am sure others would appreciate the insight from a fellow owner

[@audiorick841]

Jay, nice review. Since you’re on a roll with tubes. It would be awesome to get you take on a Decware Zen amp.

[@jamiejwaters]

Great review sir! My only hangup...and I have to believe others might feel the same... is the price of this unit puts it directly into competition with Decware. Decware consistently reviews incredibly well, is widely regarded to be a fantastic value, and truly reflects quality craftsmanship. With that in mind, I would very much like to see you make a comparison review :)

[@gaborozorai3714]

If I am not mistaken Decware do not make any amps anywhere nearly as powerful as this, so there is no direct comparison. If you have to drive high sensitivity speakers, sure, Decware may be an even better choice. But if they made an amp with similar hardware I am guessing it would be significantly more expensive.

[@jamiejwaters]

​@@gaborozorai3714 Decware does make more powerful tube amps and they are indeed more expensive. Then again, the fact their products carry a lifetime warranty is also reflected in the pricing. I completely agree with your point on speakers. Additionally, I have been sorely tempted to purchase Willsenton products in the past, but everyone has to consider their own circumstances. This new unit may indeed punch above its weight class but it's two grand, that doesn't include shipping, and any potential future repairs would be astronomical based solely on shipping alone. Conversely, one could get a stellar Decware unit, a lifetime warranty, and purchase a pair of new speakers from Decware for less than the cost of the Willsenton shipped.

[@gaborozorai3714]

@@jamiejwaters I am sure that's a perfectly sensible comparison for you personally to make, but in terms of products it's oranges to apples. Decware do have a 40 watter but it's a push-pull with KT66 tubes and costs close to $6000. An amp with 300B's driving 805's is a different beast entirely and more expensive to implement.

[@ttpersonalaccount]

Really appreciate your reviews. Very balanced. One of those reviews that speaks to my soul…one of those reviews that is unexplainable. Thank you!!!!

[@robertkemper8835]

Very informative review. I am shopping for a new Directly heated triode amplifier(s). My Tekton Double Impact floor standing speakers' sensitivity is rated by the manufacturer at over 98 db. I am currently bi-amping (with Meixing 3008 monoblocks on top and a Parasound A21 on the bottom. The Meixing uses 2A3 driving 805. I am bi-amping because my previous speakers were not as sensitive and I wanted tighter bass. So far I am looking at the Muzishare R100, the Willsenton R800i, the Raphaelite monoblocks. The Raphaelite uses much more iron, uses the Sovtek 2A3 as a driver, but has no preamp bypass. I believe it also uses DC filament (I think), so perhaps lower hum on my sensitive speakers. It is offered only as an 845 version. The R100 has that and even has a MM phono stage. Looking at the pictures of the circuits, the two stereo amps look like different circuits. By the way, your description of the bass correlates exactly with my experience with the 805 Meixing MC3008 (older version) monoblocks. At almost 99db should I be concerned with the hum of the Willsenton?

[@garyburke6778]

Hi Jay, I was going to purchase the r8 but after.your review decided to take it up a notch and buy the r800i. Mr Lee was very helpful, waiting on my shipping date! I’ll let you know what I think. Thanks again really enjoy the Chanel

[@mikebooth8858]

Nice well thought out review Jay! You like your valve amps!

[@MirkoMancini]

Nice video, as usual. Here, in Italy, it will comes with custom duties of 22% more, but, based on what I can see here and the quality you're speaking about, it's still a good deal.

[@Jayiyagi]

Thats a hard hit but honestly I think its still great value. Which is crazy cuz I would have not imagined myself saying that with most products

[@HareDeLune]

Excellent and thorough review, Jay. I also feel like I learned some things today about tube amp sound, so educational as well! Please, please, keep up the good work. 😊

[@dougg1075]

It’s all about the soundstage with tubes for sure. My R8 was a revelation in this regard. Best amp I’ve had so far.

[@locmanw1583]

Is this amp smooth or bright sounding?

[@dougg1075]

@@locmanw1583 it’s perfect to my ears

[@tbear2327]

I've bought both the R8 and R800i 805 on Jay's recommendation and couldn't be happier. R8 - throw the stock tubes in the bin and replace with: MELZ 6H9C circa 1952 (6SL7 equivalent) or Sylvania 6SL7WGT JAN (Joint Army Navy) circa 1976 Sylvania 6SN7GTA circa early 1960's Mullard EL34 circa early 1960's With the R8 running with these tubes, this could be an endgame amp for some people. The R800i 805 on the other hand only needs the NEVZ 6H8C replaced with the Sylvania 6SN7GTA circa early 1960's. This opens up the top end and gives a wonderful sound improvement from top to bottom, however, if you want to go one step further, you can replace the stock 805's with PSVane Acme Series. Changing this tube tightens up the bass and I feel extends the bass a little as well, without wrecking what the Sylvania's bring to the table. Clarity is also slightly improved too. So, my overall impression is that the R800i is a more powerful sounding amp and is definitely next level up from the R8, but I still do have a soft spot for the R8 providing you bin the stock tubes. I'm also experimenting with the 12AX7, the 300B and the 274B tube, but so far I'm extremely happy with the sound of the R800i. NOTE: With all tube amplifiers the most important thing to get right is the primary input tube(s). In the case of the R8, it's the 6SL7 pair, while in the case of the R800i, it's the single 12AX7. Personally, I like the MELZ 6H9C (R8) and so far in the case of the R800i, the NOS Philips 5751 (1986 mil spec version of the 12AX7), the Genalex Gold Lion ECC83 gold pin and the JJ ECC803S. All of these are 12AX7 equivalents, although you can also experiment with the 12AT7. The only difference between these two tube types is their gain. The 12AX7 has a gain of 100, while the 12AT7 has a gain of 70, so between both of these tube types, there are lots of options, from crystal clear to very warm sounding. Personally, I would rather have a crystal clear input tube and use other tubes further along the amplification chain to add a bit of colour or flavour to taste. Speakers used: Q Acoustics Concept 500/REL T9x (2) for the R800i and Q Acoustic Concept 300/REL T5x for the R8. Streaming DAC: Naim ND5 XS 2 used with both amps, i.e., these are two separate systems used in different rooms. BTW, the R800i beats my Hegel H390 and my Naim Uniti Atom (by quite a margin in the case of the Atom) in my opinion. I guess I just love tubes better! :)

[@AusGanesh]

Hi Rachael, I just purchased the R800i, and thank you for your guid in tube selection. I own Rogue M180 mono’s now and they use KT120 tubes, I hope the R800i will live up to its glory. I have way improve the bass by hooking a sub to my Ayon CD 5s, or one of outputs of the R800i, will this give bass extension that R800i lacks?

[@donguin9348]

Rachael, Maybe you can help me on this. i watched the review of the Willsenton R800i and i am very very close to pulling the trigger. I rewatched the review and read your comments on the tubes which i thought were very helpful. My CONCERN is i just bought the Triangle Genese Trio which has 90 db sensitivity with a minimum impedance of 4,4 ohms. Will the R800i drive them well enough? Also, I have Buchardt S400's with 88db and 4 ohms impedance, will this amp drive them? Triangle Bro 3's have 87 or 90 db (depending on who measures them) with 8 ohms impedance so i have the same concern with them. I also have the LS 50's that i also switch out occasionally but they are rated at ; and a nominal impedance of 8 ohms so they most likely will not match up well? Lastly, I am using the Schiit Freya+, as a preamp, will that be too much tube? Please let me know as i have sold my PS Audio M700's and planned on getting this amp when the shipment arrived at the buyers destination. Help!!!!

[@tbear2327]

@@AusGanesh - I wouldn't say the the R800i lacks bass. In fact, with the right tubes the bass is very very good. Having said this, I use REL subwoofers because they have an excellent high-level input, not to mention that REL are also fast enough to keep up with your speakers, whether they are stand mounts or floor standers. In fact, I've been told that REL can even keep up with Quad electrostatics, which is saying a lot.

[@tbear2327]

@@donguin9348 - The R800i does have a 4ohm tap, but it really depends what is the lowest impedance that the speakers go down to. My Q Acoustic Concept 500's, for example, are rated at 6ohms (90db), but the impedance does dip down to a quite low 3.4ohms. The R800i has no trouble with this at all. It also depends on the volume you are hoping to achieve as well, meaning that a low sensitivity speaker would only perform at it's best in a small to medium sized room. As for your Freya+, try it with NOS Sylvania 6SN7GTA's (circa 1960's). They are not too expensive and will improve the Freya+ quite a lot. They also have a fabulous frequency response when installed in the R8 or R800i. As far as using the Freya+ with the R800i, I haven't tried this, so I cannot comment on whether it might improve the sound or not - it would not be "too much tube", so I certainly wouldn't worry about that. Best to let your ears tell you whether it's a better sound with and without the Freya+.

[@donguin9348]

@@tbear2327 Thank you so much for your quick response. Based on what you are saying It seems i am definitely moving forward with this amp. especially since i have a "small but treated room" and do not have to give up any of my speakers. And, I most likely have the Sylvania 6SN7GTA's setting in a drawer because i used them in the Freya before. Currently running 5692's. Do you happen to have an email you use for public venues for future chat/questions? Thanks, Don

[@joe123rp]

I noticed the Holo DAC in background…will you do a comparisson with the Denafrip Terminator?

[@rileyleclerc7042]

I would be interested to see some how much heat this thing throws? Is it noticeably warmer in your listening room running this beast? Did the R8 generate much heat in comparison? Was the R8's headphone out any good and did it impart any tube sound? Would you have liked a headphone out in the R8i or would that be asking too much?

[@ridirefain6606]

Being a fellow "Tube Head" Love your reviews of this type of integrated. If you get the chance I recommend an audition of some of the more esoteric offerings: Rogue Cronus Magnum III, Primaluna EVO 400, VLL IT-85, Audio Research VSi75, and BAT VK-80i. I cannot say that these costlier amps will sound better than the Willsenton, but I think it will would be fun to get an idea how they stack up against it. On the review side, if you ever get the chance, I think you would have a lot of fun with any Primaluna integrated. I found you can change their flavor of sound significantly, not only by brand but tube type. To my ear there are notable changes from EL-34 to KT-77, KT88, KT120, and KT150. EL 34 being the sweetest, with the loveliest midrange, that makes voices sound the most natural. Ending at the KT150 which I found to be the punchiest. It gave the amps extended highs, tight bass, and from the top to bottom lighting fast transients.

[@manzanaresantonio]

K-T150 is my favorite power tube, if this Willsenton doesn't take KT-150 tubes, it's just a toy!

[@tbear2327]

@@manzanaresantonio - RESPECTFULLY you obviously have never heard the original Mullard 6CA7 xf2 Blackburn plant tubes. These are arguably the best EL34 ever made and makes the R8 (paired to the right speakers) a possible endgame amp for many. Preamp tubes MELZ metal-base 6SL7 equivalents and Sylvania 6SN7 T-plate GTA. The sound of the R8 configured in this way is truly amazing...:)

[@manzanaresantonio]

@@tbear2327 I have heard the Mullards before and the have a gorgeous midrange, but lack dynamics. I own a pair of Russian MELZ metal-base, I bought them before the rediculous prices that they are asking for now. I still prefer the Sylvanias 6sn7 GT and GTA over any other 6sn7 family tube. I also would like to recommend you to try the 12sn7, they work perfectly on a 6sn7 preamp!

[@tbear2327]

@@manzanaresantonio - Hi. When you say the Sylvania 6SN7 GT, do you mean the "bad boys"? I have 6 matched pairs of the MELZ metal base 6SL7 equivalents. Luckily bought them before the price went through the roof. Most of them are circa early 50's with my best matched and triode balanced pair are both 1952. Anyway, after the bad boys, which are nigh on impossible to buy now, the T-plate was next, which is the one I like. I've never heard the bad boys, but have been told they don't work well in modern circuits because the voltage is too high, which is the reason why the GTA is the better option. Talking about prices, have you seen the price of the Mullard 6CA7 xf2. I paid $US1,600 for two sets of quads and last time I looked they were almost $US2,000 per quad, and that occurred in less than 6 months. Btw, I was almost going to buy the Cayan CS-150A which does use KT150's, but decided on buying the R800i 805 instead. I also own the R8 which was my first tube amp purchase which I use in another listening room.

[@manzanaresantonio]

@@tbear2327 no, I mean all the 6sn7 family. I have the Sylvania bad boys too, but I still prefer the sound of the Sylvania 6sn7GTA to all the tubes. I always like to swap to experience something different. I also like the Russian 6H8C tubes, they are cheap, but sound great! Wow 1,600 dollars for a set of tube, I can buy all the tubes that I have now for that amount of money! ;)) I am also experiencing now using adaptors with the 6F8G and 6C8G tubes. They are from the early 1940s to late 1950s , they sound punchy and dynamic, while at the same time very sweet!

[@richclips]

Looking great there Jay 😊 nice review as always

[@williamcanada6195]

Thanx Excellent Review !! Pre Amp DAC recommendations ?!? Speakers ?!?

[@edwinter8424]

Thank you Jay. I will look at pairing this with my newly acquired Klipsch Belle's

[@rosspulsford3070]

Good morning Jay, Love your high level of production mr. Great amp review, did you try it with the LRS speakers? I am thinking of pairing them up?

[@divadgnol67]

Jay goes from gandalf the white to a monk in the blink of an eye. Awesome review brother

[@Belinea1610]

It is an nice review but the screamy blue meters making it soo cheap even it is not a cheap amplifier. The Muzishare R100 is similar but looks more expensive. Will you review one? From component side if you look both of the amplifiers ill prefer Muzishare R100 ( you can see inside pix on aliexpress). So Jay would you review the Muzishare R100(805 triode) ? That is my opinion because i'm building tube amplifiers myself 🙂

[@histubeness]

@@Belinea1610 Eye of the beholder. The meters look great.

[@getstarted48]

Hey Jay, Marvelous review as usual. I'm contemplating purchasing this amp for my Quad ESL 57 speakers. Do you think this would be a good match?

[@Justwantahover]

When I heard it was 45w I said that it wasn't very powerful. But when you said it's single ended triode, I said wow, that's powerful!

[@douglasobey4307]

Any take on how its sound might compare with the Black Ice F11? Trying to match to 50 year old, recapped KLH model 30 acoustic suspension speakers long used with a 15 to 20 wpc solid state amplifier. 8 ohm speakers, but hard to locate sensitivity specification.

[@jowblow2171]

What a great well put together review. I thoroughly enjoyed this. I don't understand all the interest about the colour and length of the protein filaments that grow from follicles found in Jay's scalp. People having some fun I guess.

[@Jayiyagi]

Ive never seen people take so much interest in a reviewer’s hair 😂

[@benzakou]

Hi thank you for your great reviews. I was wondering if I can use my portable dap astell and kern sp2000t which has no level out as a source to the Wellington r800i ? Thanks

[@entity279]

Thanks for the review, Jay ! Certainly sounds like a very solid option for me after the R8, which I'm enjoying a lot (also thank you for recommending it - such a helpful step in my journey). And while I like it, I certainly would gravitate more towards (real)SET and more midrange magic :) Would be really nice if you would happen to get to hear Line Magnetic gear too, some of their bigger 300B integrates

[@dmcmaster3544]

Dude, you won't find a SET amp that provides this level of performance for under $2k

[@nappynupe2599]

My first tube amp. I love it! Wilsonton R8

[@user-od9iz9cv1w]

Great introduction to what sounds like a good value for the right person. What I enjoyed most is your description of the tube amp experience. I no longer have a solid state to compare, but I can relate to your description. I use 110w OTL monoblocks with 6C33C output tubes. Design by Transcendent Sound but DIY by me with higher quality parts. I would love to get your impression of a good OTL tube amp. To me, it captures the midrange magic and holographic stage without imparting any of the tube amp distortion. So it would be interesting for a tube guy to see if its the additional low level detail of the tube or is it the filtering of the output transformer that brings the tube joy. It would be interesting if someone could loan you their Transcendent Amp for comparison.

[@spvlinn9009]

Very very nice review Jay! What about power and heat. Heard people just love lm219ia but just can not stand the heat. Do you have any heat related issue？ Thanks

[@paulbailey4871]

Which preamps/DACs did you test with the R800i? I have Tekton DI speakers.

[@kclee1]

Hi Jay, @22.15 you said that solid state are better than tube in sound staging & imaging, is that mostly true in general? @22.56, the depth, layering & the holographic thingy: how good the R8 in this area? I ask because I have the R8, and am contemplating about the R800i now, but have no chance to hear an actual unit near me.

[@pauldergarabedian303]

With my Klipsch Cornwall IV's do you recommend the 805 or 845 tube version Jay?

[@luismiguelclemente3232]

Sorry for my rookie question: but Is there any way to use this amp in a 2.1 output system? I have the kef ls50 meta + the kef sub kc62. I also have the RME adi2 dac. Im searching for a tube amp that fits this system. Thanks in advance

[@barnabyzelman]

What floor speaker pairing would you recommend for the R800i tube amp with a budget under US$2,000/pair?

[@goodwhiskyjerome3902]

Thanks a lot for this review. I think i will try this 845 amp with my OATLON M-006 speakers ( SOUND ARTIST) what play today with YAQIN amplifiers. Thanks.

[@ladywebb9]

Hey Jay, I’m yet to shift from a solid state to tubes but, the plunge is happening now. I have watched this video over 10x to make sure I’ve considered and understood all your review points on the 800i. Thank you for all the detail. If it’s ok I’d like to ask a few questions:? - I’d like to understand what you mean by, not the most silent amp? - Also, It’s been a year and I was wondering how’s it been going with the 805 unit over that time? - I watched your review on on the Doge mk3, soon to be the mk4 and was wondering if the 800i tops the Doge for you? - I understand you not in the business of telling people what to buy but has the 800i remained a loved piece of gear on your rack? - And finally I also wanted to ask if the Kef R3 with a sensitivity rated at an average 87dB and nominal impedance claimed to be 8 ohms will be an ok match? A minimum value of 3.2 ohms suggest that an amplifier with a bit of grunt would be good. Hoping I can squeeze in and change that later. Thanks in advance for any response. I greatly appreciate your channel especially how clear, insightful and fair the feedback is. Take care Nick

[@glc650]

Jay, what product is that wood base/stand that your Holo is sitting on in the background?

[@donguin9348]

Jay, an excellent review! My question though has to do with the "805" versus "845" amp/s. Is there a totally different amp that uses 845 tubes that cannot cross over. What is the difference? Also, my concern is; i have LS50's, Buchart S400's, Triangle Bro 3's and just received the Triangle Genese Trio's. The Trio's have 90db sensitivity while the others are 85 to 88 db sensitivity. Lastly, I assume the Genese Trio's will match up well with the R800i with the 805's but not the Ls50's or Burchart S400's?

[@FindASpringTV]

Wondering about this as well

[@thevintageaudiolife]

Thank you for sharing, very informative.

[@maxc7903]

GReat stuff. I am bit confused. How Willsenton R800i (300b) compare to BoyuuRange A50 MKIII 300B in terms of vocals? Would it be similar with just power output difference? Can anyone help?

[@jylasalle]

Jay, very nice review. Please let me know did you tried this Willsenton R800i with Tannoy XT8F Speaker? What is your impression? Thank you.

[@cpaint69]

I have been waiting for a review on this tube amplifier for a long time and you have really tempted me to pull the trigger on this amplifier. I am actually considering between this and the Muzishare R100, both very similar specs and around the same price range. I am leaning more toward the R100 because looking at the interior build, the R100 looks more "robust" and more like a point to point wiring amplifier. It will be great if there is a direct comparison between these 2 amplifier.

[@Jayiyagi]

Apparently R series is being discontinued or modified to a new model towards the beginning of next year while willsenton is a new model and wont see revision any time soon.

[@cpaint69]

@@Jayiyagi Thanks for replying :) . Not sure if you are referring to the Muzishare R100 being discontinued? If I am not wrong, their current R100 is actually a 2021 upgraded version and currently is still selling over at China-Hifi-Audio and Taobao. I doubt the R100 is discontinued because it was just upgraded early this year.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@cpaint69 not sure. Maybe I am mistaken but the china hifi dude just let me know that the R series will most likely see a revision in beginning of 2022

[@cpaint69]

@@Jayiyagi No problem bro. I have been following a Hong Kong reviewer who did a recent review on the upgraded version of the R100. He shared some improvement on the upgraded version vs the previous version. That's how I get to know about the R100.

[@slowestrider4918]

I took eyeing on both brands. Hope Jay would review the X9.

[@psi3845]

Hi Jay!!! I never had a tube amp, this one seems really interesting. I'm really happy with my Densen DM10 MKIII . What you think, i must try it? It will be a good upgrade? Thank you!!! Always a nice video

[@amceagle1]

Great personal review. It's true that tube (valve) selection is important, especially with this amp. Your review has convinced me that it would be a perfect match to my Cornscala-B speakers. [Did you know that Western-Electric is now remanufacturing the 300B? ($1000.00+ a matched set!]. Are there going to be any 'revisions' or updates to this amp as I get no answers from the company web-site?

[@Savoryaddictions]

Quick question on XLR connector....Any suggestions on a great quality XLR cable that would work well for this amp? Thanks,

[@NOVAISPERES]

I’m using a pair of Nordost blue heaven XLR connected to my dac and it works very well. I don’t know if it is the best but…

[@vinylcafe666]

There's something I'd like to know in more details about that product: What's the pre-in input for? Can we plug a turntable directly to that input, without a pre-amp? Great review by the way! :)

[@dmcmaster3544]

No, the pre-in is exactly what it says. It's a preamp input to use only the amp section on the R800i.

[@bchboy1206]

Another informative video! I am very new to the audiophile life and am trying to learn but have a pretty limited income for it. You have me about sold on this product but what would you recommend as a preamp for this at a decent price point. I plan on getting either Klipsch Forte IV or Cornwall IV for listening to classic rock?

[@Jayiyagi]

Well its an integrated so you dont need a pre amp. It can also be used as just an amplifier and in that case I’d recommend the doge 8 pre amp which is what I am using right now

[@save_the_night]

This is a great review, insightful and gripping to the end.

[@roybanks8709]

Hi jay. Just found yr channel instant subscription. Thanks to you I discovered this brand. Seems really worth a look. I want to make a pure system great on acoustic and vocal. thinking Ls3/5 type speaker harbeth spendor falcon etc. must be British any thoughts ? Since they are not easy load I Need a great speaker and tube amp combo. Any advice ?

[@thespotlightkid1011]

It's also a beautiful looking amp. At first buying one, I'd want to put it on my bedside table at nights just to behold my eyes (maybe not) perhaps. Hum ballance adjustment is (or was) rare, i only ever saw them before on some vintage tube amps & found them useful in some situations. My first Hearing a s/h Radford (2 EL34's per ch') decades back, trounce (to my ears) my then new to me s/h Arcam poweramp & a Musical Fidelity A1 intergrated was a revelation in tube's favour, tho i found their matching vintage tube preamps the noisy culprit in all my old vintage tube combo's, esp their phono stages, easy to get around now tho, with well chosen modern tube preamps & phono stages. Single Ended, purest of class A (by default of it's S.E.Topology) is theoretically the best & purest sound reproduction possible, tube or s/state ...theoretically at least. Measurement aside, tubes sound gloriously euphonic to me, accuracy? I don't get why we should track down pure accuracy. In the 1960's to mid 1980"s manufacturer's advertised measuremen wars, higher degrees of allready decent accuracy accounted for nothing to me, sound-wise, especially when tubes were concerned with their even-order low distortion harmonics.

[@jeffreysykes3505]

This is one of the best information resources for me

[@ericbyers4758]

How hot does the R800i get?? Loved the review! Thanks

[@lamluu6822]

Hi there. I love to watch you review on hifi gear that brings me more information more understanding that I been lacking on thank you very much for that. I have couple good ss amp but I still not happy with it. Now I am thinking switching to tubes amp . I have a question that need your help: if money is not the thing I concern So between R8 and R800i, witch one I should go to it . I never have tube amp before . Thank you very much and have a good day

[@konstantinlazos6746]

Would Paradigm Signature S8's be a good match with this amplifier? This is what I currently have for speakers

[@brendanliddell240]

Thanks for the review. Would you please review the Willsenton R300B Single-ended Class A Integrated Amplifier?

[@magneticmonopole7824]

Can somebody help me please? My unit will only bias to 30. Is this normal? What is the correct bias setting?

[@FOH3663]

Damn Jay, keep it up! Solid ... much appreciated.

[@kuisin88]

Jay, does this tube hum when you turn it on? I had experience with 845 and 805 (pin on top version) where it hum when powered on.

[@Jayiyagi]

ever so slightly. Like I mentioned, its normal for tube amps to have noise sometimes but it goes away with usage

[@ramonsmith8240]

Hello, Could you please confirm if this amp makes a good match with Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-5000F? I already have a pair of those speakers.

[@MrJambicz]

Hello, sorry for my question but I am a beginner. I was wondering if this amp could be used with my Infinity Renaissance 90's speakers ?

[@alexandresimard785]

I own this r800 but i cannot find o\how to adjust the bias… i beg for some help tks

[@appleturnover519]

Do you prefer the 845 version better? (By the way, are the tubes--805 vs 845--are only difference between both R800i models?)

[@vinaychandra5305]

Hi Jay , your videos are great watch them nearly everyday . Just wanted you opinion , I have a chance to buy a secondhand Willsenton R800i with 211 output tubes apparently ordered directly from factory by previous owner . My question is what are your thoughts on R800i with 211 tubes ? Does 211 sound much different to 845 or 805 . Should I pull the trigger on this one ?

[@joel_hifi1994]

Jay, thank you for the very informative review as usual, please keep up the good work 👍 I noticed that the Willsenton R-800i 300B/805 looks so similar to the Line Magnetic LM-508ia or LM-805ia… is there any link between Willsenton and Line Magnetic? Are those units coming out of the same factory? Thanks for your clarification!

[@Jayiyagi]

Good question. Can’t confirm but many of these companies share similar dna so wouldn’t be surprised if they had some type of affiliation going on

[@joel_hifi1994]

@@Jayiyagi Jay, thanks for your feedback! It would be great if those companies would communicate about their potential affiliations, for sake of transparency.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@joel_hifi1994 to be fair. It happens in other parts of the world too and it usually comes at a price of signing an NDA because most brands want to seem separate

[@joseeduardomendoza3565]

How do you compare r800i to McIntosh MA 252? I know the MA 262 is hybrid, but since you are an specialist In McIntosh I really would like to know your thoughts. Thanks

[@christinearmington]

Yes, please! 😇

[@josephhanna2786]

How do you connect a high level input for subs with this amp?

[@andrasnakalov4297]

Hi there, Recently got my Monitor Audio Platinum 300 3g speakers and looking for 800i 805. Do you think they will sound good together?

[@dmcmaster3544]

Jay, in another video you mentioned that your favorite tubed preamp is the Doge 8 RCA with the Briar tube. What kind of an improvement is this preamp over the preamp that comes with the R800i?

[@PaulClay46masonWV]

As my non-audiophile wife stated upon her first listen to tube gear, “It sounds more real” I couldn't have said it better.

[@victormoreno2767]

It would be great if this amplifier had a pre out for the base. What kind of music do you play with this amp. Thanks for the review!

[@marcgabor9690]

I think tube amps don’t usually have pre outs because of some of the imitations of the circuit design. You could do it but you would essentially need to completely separate the preamp and power amp so you could turn off the power amp when not in use. Tube amps usually aren’t happy when they aren’t hooked up to speakers.

[@zeissiez]

Been waiting for this review for so long, from Jay’s short hair to long hair to grey hair to no hair

[@user-hb1ve6mc6f]

Schizophrenic?

[@subject2no135]

That IS a long time!

[@robertwang7825]

The Chinese version sells for US1630 including delivery. It’s def a very gd buy at this price even if you spend another US500 rolling some of the tubes. This is def my next upgrade , the Pontus 2 was also a very gd buy at US1522. Enjoying it a lot. Chi fi has come of age.

[@soupistasty5]

Love this review! Side note - stop taking my hair style; it's mine! Kappa

[@ScottsLifeOffGrid]

Well done Jay, would love to see you review the Cary CAD-805-RS monoblock tube amps. I would expect that imagine would be much improved.

[@JohanJ37]

Hello Jay, is the sound just as open as from the R8, now I have the Unison S8 with 845 tubes, this amplifier sounds Ok but through a "curtain". Greetings from The Netherlands.

[@simonecominato5561]

Nice review. IMHO people not hearing any difference between solid state and tube amplifiers are usually inexperienced listeners who don't know what to "look for" while listening. Anyway, out of curiosity, did you check/adjust bias each time you tube rolled?

[@Jayiyagi]

Absolutely and once every 2 weeks or so. However thats a bit extreme - I’d say check your bias every once a month or so and when you change tubes So that the tubes run evenly

[@causg7194]

Hi Jay, please help me with the tubes.. I own the the thing for half a year now and feel it as you described it!! Want to upgrade the 300B tubes. Do the acme have same midrange as the we from psvane? Thank you so much for your awesome work!! Best regards from germany 😊

[@dereklo5716]

When biasing the tubes, do you take 0 as the correct reading.? Thanks.

[@larryposton9327]

Could really use an English manual for this amp. I picked up one but it was the China model and no manual. Any idea where I can get this?

[@xiaofenghanyu]

Thanks Jay for this nice video. Great review! I am going to buy it. I am living in Toronto, Canada. Do you know how much the import duties need to be paid? Thanks!

[@ukbij]

Jay how would the R8 and R800i pair with the KLH model 5. I am seriously considering either amp if they have good synergy.

[@magicalselena]

Hello, I have only owned one tube amplifier about two years ago. It was a Dynaco VTA ST-120 Amplifier kit, I am now looking for the best tube amplifier I can fine for around 2,500.00 And I am looking at the Willsenton R800i? My question is witch R800i the one with the 805 tube? or the one with the 845 tube? Is there another amplifier that would be better sounding that I mite consider? Thank you jay I am always looking at Thomas's and your sites. Your both very helpful and informative,

[@user-jk5hu2sh2q]

Hi jay I bought this one and I really wonder how it will do with my totem forest knowing it is not a really sensitive speaker... Have you tried it with your tribe tower?

[@ryanbarden7474]

Anyone recommend the 805 or 845 for me, I listen to a lot of dream pop, neofolk, drone, hard rock. 805 has more power but 845 is good for vocals? I’m not sure which one would be good for me. My speakers are the acoustech pl 980

[@tpcomparison]

I have now the same tube setting as you. What bias you are running on your device? Big thanks to you 🎉

[@rawangmp8450]

👏👏🏻👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿👏👏🏻👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿 wonderful clarity on the R800i review.

[@robertm8518]

Hi Jay, Do you prefer this r800i over the Dodge 10 mk3?

[@jimgram4606]

I'm looking for a tube amp to power the top side of my B&W 801 speakers. I have a high power class-A solidstate amp for the bottom side (Krell 750X2) with ballanced inputs. My tube preamp is a Macintosh C2500. Is this Willsenton amp powerful and dynamic enough to bi-amp my B&W 801's???