This TUBE AMPLIFIER got me all HOT 'N BOTHERED | PrimaLuna EVO 400 review

[@erichudson3307]

Omg! Someone FINALLY reviewed a primaluna model on KZbin ❤ thanks Darko! So glad to see this. I own a primaluna prologue premium integrated. It's easily the best sounding amp in all regards that I have ever owned and i have tried time and time again to best it with other tube amps and all others class of amps. Expensive ones at that. The primaluna gear is truly tops for my financial abilities.

[@ericjensen9091]

Does it have the bass detail, definition, and texture of a similarly priced solid state integrated amp?

[@erichudson3307]

100% it has excellent low end.

[@ericjensen9091]

@@erichudson3307 Thank you.

[@stijnvanderlooy5311]

Listen to the review. He discusses the bass

[@Brighamdoc]

I have the Primaluna Evo 400 preamp and the Evo 300 power amplifier. I’m running those into Zu Audio Omen Def Supremes. I wholeheartedly agree with you on everything. The mid range on this system is the best I have ever heard from any system. I was in Audio sales for about ten years back in the 80s. Mid range in the system beats anything I have ever heard anywhere. Vocals, both male and female, instruments, like saxophone, trumpet, strings have a presence that is nothing short of spectacular. Compared to my DIY solid state rig running into Sonus Fabers it lacks the high end shimmer and sparkle. But you could have easily guessed that.

[@edferguson1298]

I have the Primaluna dialogue one (an older model roughly equivalent to the evo 100) paired with old Klipsch La Scalas. My main music choices are blues, jazz, jazz fusion, 70s rock and acoustic music. The smaller amps (8 vs 14 tubes) throw significantly less heat and my set up has PLENTY of power for my listening room but the match with speakers is critical. I love the laid back tone and rich mid range from the amp. Tube amps aren’t for everyone but they offer an incredibly rich experience for those that prefer warmth and richness to grip and clinical accuracy and are willing to deal with the space, heat and maintenance that go along with tube amp ownership.

[@SpyderTracks]

I have the Evo 100 Integrated which would be well above my budget, but managed to find ex display that had been unboxed right at the start of the pandemic by a well known hifi shop in Scotland, it was unused but with a part ex on an old pair of Shure SRH1840s I had bought second hand, i ended up only paying about 60% of the full price. I just got really lucky. The adaptive auto bias circuit is worth its weight in gold and really does increase tube life. Tube rolling is a joy, I was lucky and picked up some NOS Mullards and some Gold Lions before prices skyrocketed and supplies got low. Even though it’s only 40w I don’t have any issues driving my 89db Buchardt S300 Mk2s. I looked a cheaper options from ChiFi options and some “cheap” western designs, but none of them came close to the performance and power of the PrimaLuna. They are beautifully engineered and very little compromise at the budget.

[@Krell666]

Beautiful sounding amplifier. I found a set of KT150s and some NOS 12AU7s really woke up the amp but kept the lovely golden glow. Thanks for taking the time to review some toobes!

[@15therock]

So glad you’ve finally reviewed a PL amp. I’ve had the Evo 100 integrated nearly a year now paired with Sonus Faber Lumina 2 speakers, it’s a forever amp! 😊 If there is a negative, I’d agree with your comment regarding the remote, it also needs to be pointed directly in line of sight to operate properly.

[@brianbieniowski2777]

Nothing makes for a spicier comments section than a tube amp built in China. I could have gotten by with an Evo 100 or 200 in my system but I really loved the triode vs. ultra linear option when I demoed this last year, so I ended up buying an Evo 300. I've heard the 300 in my modest system, where it sounds absolutely heavenly, and also with Sonus Faber Olympica Nova IIIs ($13 grand). This thing will clearly scale up to meet the needs of many different systems. I wanted to be done buying amplification for my main system and this fit the bill well for me. In case you wondered, I auditioned with John Fahey, Seefeel's Succour, Peter Michael Hamel organ stuff, and Robert Fripp's Let the Power Fall. I was sold. It's clearly built to last, no regrets whatsoever. I do not think the Upscale Audio guy does this gear any favors with the superheated YT sales pitches -- it's off-putting and I came to the amp with a lot of skepticism as a result. I felt a lot better about spending the money at a local dealer after listening for myself. A few other observations regarding the video: it runs hot but I was surprised to hear it heated up a room(!), not my experience. The remote is way more solid than any other remote I've ever had. I've never detected hum with headphones (I typically listen with ZMF Aeolus and other high impedance cans, however). At no point after initial setup have I ever referred back to the manual or thought about it again.

[@paulb.3227]

Agree !

[@Quicksilver1934]

Spot on synopsis. I also have the Evo 300 with the same results as yours. Really no need to ever buy another amp i my opinion.

[@rafaelescobar6831]

I own the Primaluna Evo 300 integrated amp and it came with a very nice metal remote, no.hum ever noted, not overly hot snd it sounds wonderful.

[@solweiner4242]

Same here! Also: enjoying JJ Tubes from Eurotubes. ECC802S superb.

[@paulb.3227]

That also is my experience with the EVO 300 pre + power combination. Great heavy remote, NO hum at all and great sound!

[@Quicksilver1934]

I have the same experience with my Evo 300 for the last 2.5 years. Solid metal remote and no hum. Great sound.

[@geoffreydebrito7934]

I got three major points from this review; the importance of synergy, pick your poison and never have I heard John wax so poetic😀

[@chrizitionz]

Owned this amp paired with Focal Kanta 3s for a number of years now. The heaphone experience is phenomenal and listening to the system via the focal speakers late into the night is just a magical experience. 3m ceilings in my home and do not feel the heat generation is an issue. Completely agree with this review though that the Primaluna delivers detail beautifully smooth but never muddied. Especially when paired with focals beryllium tweeters, its a winning combo for analytical yet laid back listening.

[@ozon8r]

I've owned this amp for almost a year. And it is outstanding at this price point, probably the best tube amp below US$10K. Completely black background, perfectly delicious mids with very compelling highs and lows. I absolutely agree with your criticism of the owners manual. I do disagree with your assessment of the remote which I find solidly built and intuitively laid out. Push some vinyl through this integrated amp and it will bring tears to your eyes.

[@cwverburg]

Have used the older DiaLogue for over 5 years now with the more gutsy KT 150 valves married to electrostatics, heavenly will never go back to transistor amps. Love the review, as always right on point.

[@BERTVVANHORCK]

I have owned an EVO 400i for 2 years. Respect for your views. Compared to my other remotes (Sky TV, Apple TV) I like the heavy simplicity of the PL remote. It s a bit retro heavy, milled metal with metal buttons, which I like and the coating of the metal is excellent. The buttons work without fail.. As to the heat, the glow of tubes is something that replaces my open-fire-in-the-winter feeling, just love it! Otherwise I agree with you. It is a very musical and gutsy amp which you can listen to for hours without getting the tiredness of modern digital amps. It is both muscular and smooth without being over-warm. It is for the tube lovers who prefer sound over (Macintosh) looks.

[@henryha517]

5:25 knob feel 😂 love your work!

[@jimfarrell4635]

I have an old Primaluna Prologue 2 I bought second hand a few years ago. The build quality is fantastic and these things seem to be super reliable. I love the fact you can change tube types (ie EL34 to KT88 ) without any faff or biasing. As for remotes, you are right. I hate it when manufacturers cheap out on remotes. Shanling, Allnic and Kinki Studio all know how to do a nice remote.

[@lloydstephens2135]

The EL34 power tubes are very laid back and smooth sounding. The PL400 can use other power tubes, and you may find the much more dynamic sounding KT120 or KT150 to your taste.

[@diogoalfaiate5253]

Thanks for the review. As a PL owner, I feel that most of your remarks on timbre and frequency response apply to the EL34 tubes only. Changing to KT88 or KT150 will have a dramatic impact on the sound signature, progressively losing in sweetness but gaining in bottom end and treble extension. What stays the same regardless of tube choice is the three-dimensional soundstage and the "tactile" sonic traits.

[@skipgordon5382]

Try Telefunken Black Diamond EL 34's. I find them to be the best of the EL 34's.

[@KtsStone80]

Just recently acquired this amplifier. I think this review is spot on, in terms of the sound quality and characteristics. It is nothing like a typical EL34 style amp, and it does indeed get hot. I installed a couple of silent USB fans to cool it down.

[@CarlosPerez-eb5er]

Thank you for the review of the Evo 400. I own the Evo 200 and agree with your assessment of its performance. There are a couple of points I would like to make. My remote is very different, all metal, never had a heat issue, fewer tubes but still plenty of power and no hiss from speakers, dead silent. I have Monitor Audio Silver 500s but have always been curious about horn speakers. Perfect review for me. Keep up the excellent work.

[@pauljoyquilter359]

We have been selling PrimaLuna for many years, and have never had any dealer or end user mention anything negative about the remote control. What they always mention is how much they are enjoying their music!

[@S.L.1211]

I’ve got the Prima Luna Evo 200 Integrated paired with Wharfedale Lintons and a Bluesound Node2i. Sound superb and zero hum. Very low noise floor. I switched out the stock tubes and put in KT120’s. Doesn’t really give off a ton of heat (but it also has 4 power tubes compared to the 8 his had). Remote feels really nice to me, more premium than some plastic one. Visually it’s also a beautiful amp to look at, intriguing and not just another black box. It’ll be my last amp.

[@slam854]

I have the Prima Luna HP Power Amp and Dialogue Premium Pre Amp. The remote is heavy aluminum with O-rings to protect furniture. This amp replaced Atmos-sphere M-60 monoblocs and it is extraordinary. JBL 4425 are my speakers. Truly superb audio experience. This amp is easy on tubes even when pushed hard. Never a tube failure in 10 years.

[@slam854]

Stock PL EL34's are held in reserve reserved by KT77 replacements and a matched set of Siemens EL34's. Input tubes are Gold Lion 12AU7 in both pre and power amps. Military Phillips 5AR4 for the rectifiers. These Electronics are simply MUSICAL & BUILT TO LAST.

[@mmdusa]

Thank you John. So happy to see you finally getting to the Prima Luna. And very happy to see you liked it. Keep up the great reviews. And, I agree with you about the remotes. (Looking at you KEF)

[@fshnrig]

The 400i has been remarkable for 2+ years. Critical listening and soul nourishment is what I was looking for from a hand wired all tube amp. I went to the audio shop for Macintosh and bought Primaluna. Klipsch horn speakers are a great companion with a REL sub for a touch of bottom end. No hum or noise whatsoever with AC power conditioner.

[@Quicksilver1934]

I have the Evo 300 for about the same time as you and I very rarely have a hum. When I do I just make sure all the tubes are tight and the hum is gone. Mine is currently paired with Focal Aria 906. Thinking of upgrading to the new Kef R3 Meta.

[@fshnrig]

@@Quicksilver1934 The reviews on those speakers are quite impressive. Let me know how that works out for you. -Greg

[@ping2dk]

Evo 400 is a slight upgrade of the DiaLogue Premium HP - which I have. It is a CLASS A at STEREOPHILE. - I upgraded from a HEGEL H160. Now I finally have..... a real HighEnd system §;-) Hegel and NAD play very correctly, but Primaluna is much more musical and engaging with tighter bass and a bigger 3D sound stage with silky smooth sound. My set up is: Audio Alchemy DDP 1 DAC and PS 5 Power Supply and DMP-1 Streamer and a GoldenEar Triton Reference speakers Primaluna with Triton Ref. is a combination made in heaven and often used by Sandy Gross at shows

[@tedjensen8841]

"Vapor trail decay" Thats a new one, love it.

[@skipgordon5382]

I have owned an EVO 400 pre + 2 EVO 400 power amps for nearly 5 years. This is definitely a step up from the integrated. I fine the speed and clarity of the low end to be very good. I take exception to the remote comment. The minor sound of the buttons not not signify cheap to me. This remote is solid and much better than the basic plastic stuff from many other suppliers. I'm driving Sopra 3 loud speakers with a pair of REL 212 SX subs. I think the synergy is good.

[@kennethlee1818]

John, glad to finally see a review of a tube amp on your channel. Prima Luna tubes are good quality but vintage tubes, if you can find them, would increase the sound quality immensely.

[@tobiaswinter1358]

A bubble bath sprinkled with glitter, I like that comparison!

[@leegodwin2071]

Same here. This analogy is brilliant I now want to hear this amp. I said something similar talking to my bass player, I said 'Full fat caramel, chocolate covered funk".. Sometimes it just makes sense.

[@rhorto01]

Totally agree about the remote. If I were buying a $5-6K amp why would I quibble with an extra $50 for a nicer remote? I own a Decware SE34I.5 which is also a EL34 amp, though only in the 5-6 watt power range. I live in Wisconsin where we get fairly long and cold winters, so I use the Decware amp during the colder months with a Schitt Ragnarök 2 as a pre-amp, and I just use the Schitt as an integrated amp during warmer weather. As a setup it works well, especially since whatever time of year it is I use the headphone amp on the Ragnarök thus avoiding any hum. (My speakers are Klipsch Heresey IVs so power is not an issue.) My experience while using the EL34 tubes is the sound isn't tremendously different than what I was used to with solid state amps. In general, the Decware has a bit more soundstage depth, and the Raggy has a touch more definition for the instruments. Both of them sound really good. I have picked up some KT77 tubes to do a little tube rolling come the Fall. It gives me something to look forward to when the weather goes to hell. lol Great review, and I enjoy seeing different kinds of equipment.

[@portnaluinge]

I’ve used a Primaluna Dialogue One for the last 12 years or more, and it’s been a joy. It’s been flawless in use and, with only about half the power of the Evo400, more than powerful enough to drive my Tannoy XT8Fs to ear-splitting levels. I wasn’t a huge fan of the stock tubes, but like you say, tube rolling is trivial (if potentially expensive). It’s been good to see the brand go from strength to strength.

[@mhines191]

I have a PrimaLuna EVO 300 preamp paired with a Parasound A21+. Love the sound driving the 3.7i's. The preamp does not put out much heat but is still very heavy.

[@Ylm-r9g]

I remember a friend had a pair of Carver Silver Sevens. He loved them. He also had a pair of Silver Seven T's... which were gifted to me for the holiday one year.

[@TombstoneTube]

This might be one of John's best review

[@randyp7072]

Definitely having a glitter sprinkled bubble bath tomorrow whilst listening to Steely Dan’s Gaucho!

[@jennifermartin9043]

I love my EVO 400, with both my Magnepans and LS50 Meta/REL sub. Just great.

[@hank8499]

Very nice that you have them paired with Maggie's and they drive them. I have the evo 400i paired Elac upper end Vela fs 407 and feel that it drives them well. Are you using the stock el-34s?

[@sparkplug5392]

hahahahah no way enough power to drive those speakers properly LOL

[@jennifermartin9043]

@@hank8499 Often, yes. Sometimes KT77s or KT88s.

[@jennifermartin9043]

@@sparkplug5392 All that I can go by is the sound that I'm getting, which is great. It's not all about power with the Maggies; it's about quality of current.

[@baldF]

“Bubble bath sprinkled with glitter” 😂😂😂🤣- Nobel Prize nomination for Witterature! 👏

[@danielwilliams1921]

I'm running two PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium power amps as mono blocks. I also have their ProLogue Three preamp and the ProLogue CD player. Great stuff, damn-near bulletproof.

[@marcgabor9690]

Great review! I understand why Upscale would want you to review the top of the line EVO 400 but I wish you could have tried the EVO 100. It's not as big or expensive as the 400 and still has that amazing headphone circuit that draws from the main output. In my experience it ran warm but not enough to alter the environment of my room. Had the punchy, dynamic sound you described in your review and worked well with a wide range of speakers. I think it would be more than enough in your Berlin room. I did get a bad tube light once and taking it out and putting it back in made the light go away. I did replace it with a Line Magnetic LM-216ia which uses KT-88 tubes and can switch from triode to push pull. Both great amps but I prefer the sound and looks of the Line Magnetic just a bit more.

[@iborrada]

“…like a pebble that’s been polished by millions of years of wave action…” - completely brilliant

[@thrillcat]

I just completely redid my 2ch system to get my Jolida 202BRC tube integrated back into the system. Sold off the B&O powered speakers, bought a pair of Rega speakers and just love the combo. Sources are a Rega Planar 6 and a Node. Fantastic system.

[@rumbold101]

I just bought a PrimaLuna EVO 200 today to go with Harbeth SHL5s. Not received yet, but will update 😊Thanks for video

[@paulb.3227]

I own PrimaLuna EVO 300 pre+ power amps to go with Harbeth SLH5 XD; a hell of a combination! Do you also own the XD version?

[@rumbold101]

@@paulb.3227 me not the XD - evo 200 integrated amp- not connected up yet as on holiday but I might set it up tomorrow!! 🌞

[@PhotographyInFlight4183]

Where's the update?

[@TheChopcat]

Great to have a valve amp review. Of course the comparison (sort of) from Blighty is the Icon Audio 60. You might like it paired with some very efficient speakers. But even if you don’t you will love the remote.

[@kjonge]

Great review! I love my evo 200, such a joy to listen to! I am with you on the remote though, I am on my second pair.

[@coleybrenan]

Dude. You rock. This is great and so so helpful. Thank you.

[@geo.037]

I have a Prima Luna Evo 100. The remote is metal solid and very well built. Obviously a different remote than the one you have.

[@ridirefain6606]

Own a pair of EVO 400's set up as Monoblock's. I heard hum once and that was from a turntable not having a proper ground. Wondering if there is something not quite right with your review sample. Mine are dead quiet.

[@RacingAnt]

Or, with the setup.

[@keeferdog5617]

SUPERTRAMP “SCHOOL”? DAMN DARKO- “THERE’S HOPE FOR YOU YET”!

[@scratchback2001]

I've had the first release of this amp for about 7 years and it sounds amazing. In regards to the hum, I think the Northern Hemisphere has Gremlins because I can turn on the amp, then the pre-amp for my Ortofon Black MM cartridge which is fitted to a brand new SL1200MK2 turntable {I was a DJ in Australia for many years} and all I get at maximum volume is the tiniest hiss. The fact that at that level I would destroy any speaker is ridiculous of course. My Wharfedale speakers sound fantastic. I can't go much past 10 o'clock without deafening myself {I'm an Australian guy}. I use the stock tubes and the power cable and have no hum on headphones at all. I think America has dirty power because they're always talking about how bad it is and that they have to use conditioners to clean and filter mains power supplies. As for using it as a heater in Winter, I use my PrimaLuna HP all year round but that's an old joke anyway. PrimaLuna sell phono stages and 5AR4 rectified pre-amps as well as mono blocks. My friends have been waiting for their amp to arrive. All of their products reek of good taste and the stock tubes are wonderful. If I win lotto, I'll have a PrimaLuna room fitted with everything they make. Keep up the good work Kevin. Cheers from Australia, Andrew Collins.

[@cobar5342]

Nice balanced video. I agree that the tactile pleasure that selecting a CD, reading the literature and about the artist and admiring the 'cover'. Of course the similar experience accompanies an LP - even more so .....I would like to see more on tube amps. To me they are the bee's knees

[@johnnixon2504]

Dang it John. You have now reviewed my exact dream system…. I have too much information to make responsible financial decisions now. 😂

[@AndyG11774]

Great review! I use a Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP integrated (previous version of the EVO 400) with 80’s Klipsch LaScalas. It’s such a wonderful match with the Klipsch that I would recommend highly.

[@adsph]

Great review John. Really enjoy your take on components. All the best.

[@samuelwaters697]

The remote does makes a difference…(the only component many of us even touch) glad you make this point. My Anthem STR has a very nice metal remote designed specifically for this unit. Much like the unit itself, it is intuitive,operates smoothly and looks and feels premium. I do wonder if Muzishare, Willsenton and Cayin have caught up with Prima Luna at this point. I’ve wanted to try a Prima Luna ever since I sold my Jolida, which, for the money they are wonderful.

[@darrendominix2219]

Great review as usual. My feeling after owning one is that in regards to the manual....YES!!! I really expected something a bit more. Regarding the remote comments, a machined billet aluminum piece is much more expensive to produce than it's plastic counterpart (or so I would think), I just wish they had tightened up the tolerances so the buttons wouldn't rattle as you identified as it would then not come off as cheaply made. It does bother me as well so I agree whole heartedly. Regarding the bass and sound. I rolled the power tubes to KT 150s and the gain tube to Brimars and Mullards and the sound is now much less laid back with more of that syrup sound you are mentioning. Tube rolling is the beauty of this amp that wasn't quite hit enough (It was mentioned, but not stressed IMO). The circuitry allows pretty much any combo of tubes (don't even have to match) and so you can change the sound to exactly what your ears prefer with extremely little effort. This amp is a chameleon that is simply waiting for you to change its color to what ever you want.

[@mrmwrsmith]

Hey John....if your hearing some hum when using the cans....maybe go over all the valves, removing and installing them again, making sure they're properly seated....I had some issues when headphone listening also and this sorted it out for me.

[@themaskedsingercucucachu8225]

I feel the same about the Chinese made shortcuts in quality as you do. Everything matters, the packaging, the engineering, knob feel, remotes, etc... I have heard this amp connected to Yamaha NS 5000 and it was wonderful.

[@unityoc]

4:56 at least you got a physical manual, my 100 Evo Phono came with nothing for envornmental reasons and even checking the website many months after launch there is only a so-call quick start guide up and no full manual.

[@SuperMadpom]

With 99db sensitivity the klipsch would run on some very low Watt SET amps - no excuses. I think my single ended Amp Camp Amp transistor amp set up sounds better than my push pull valve amp did I'm very keen to try single ended triode now.

[@batterytestchannel-v4v]

I recently bought a tube preamp and there was slight but noticeable hum via the speakers. It disappeared when I added an Audioquest Niagara power conditioner to my system.

[@davidsagarra9841]

Good and honest review, thanks!, I have the PrimaLuna EVO400 poweramp paired with the Klipsch Forte IV; everything what you’ve said is totally true and I’m so happy with that combination. Amazing amplifier if matched with the correct speakers.

[@cvfreeman1]

Interesting take on the remote. My PL remote is the nicest hifi remote I’ve ever had. Curious to know what other “Chinese” brands use a similar remote. I’ve never noticed any hum from my Evo 400 into my Focals. But I’ll be trying to find some today. Thanks!

[@prs24328]

I do wish that John would audition some McIntosh equipment. Frank McIntosh had some patents on amplifier design that led the way to modern amplifier design. Also, I strongly believe that John would be impressed with the quality of all of the components, including the remote control.

[@1999zrx1100]

There’s already too much about McIntosh out there.

[@mrmwrsmith]

If the evo 400 is a bit too expensive for some. May I suggest tracking down the 400's previous iteration, the dialogue premium hp, it's almost the same amp, I scored one for £1700 with the original el34's and full set of kt120's, and 6 cv4003 mullards..absolute bargain.

[@roeland1205]

Upgrade to KT88 and see if 4 ohm's can match your speakers and hear the bass come alive. I'm driving R3's with and older Primaluna, and this makes all the difference in the world. R3's for example realy love the 4ohm signal. I have also tried this on Q900's, but they wouldnt cope with the power the same way. ...

[@nico3641]

Reviews for PrimaLuna are really hard to find. Thank you

[@JulienBourjault]

Hello, You’re perfectly right, manufacturers should pay attention to remote control, that’s the one part we have physical contact with. I would add the volume control knob, it should get a lot of attention as well 😎

[@BERTVVANHORCK]

The remote is actually made of milled metal, with metal buttons and excellent quality coating. I love it compared to all my other remotes. Retro quality, just like the amp.

[@mrmessyjesse]

I do wish they would have sent you the Evo 100 tube DAC as well, that product has me intrigued…

[@klaverro]

Very good review John of a great Dutch product! You should try the PrimaLuna EVO 300 Hybrid Integrated Amplifier next. I am very curious, as an audiophile who loves class-AB amps, what that hybrid will bring you for your musical taste and if that one combines better with the Vivid Kaya's (I did not tested it by myself). p.s.: why do you get a Dutch product via the USA when you're in Berlin? greetings from The Netherlands, Ron.

[@DBravo29er]

Great review!! John, if you really want a versatile integrated tube amp, get a Line Magnetic LM805ia. 48 watts of SET output. Even makes LS50 Metas come alive in a medium sized room. MORE TUBES PLEASE!!!! :D

[@rosswarren436]

A Muzishare X7 is more my financial speed (with replaced resistors for better safety), but this Primaluna Evo 400 is a thing of beauty. Careful with your back in lifting it.

[@serhiishelest]

I am the owner of PL. Replacing the standard amplification tubes with KT 66 essentially increased the stage. Replacing standard tubes in the preamplifier with vintage rtf, tungsram removes all the shortcomings in the sound - equalizes the middle frequencies and significantly improves the high frequencies.

[@slam854]

I have the separates, HP amp with matching preamp. A failure occurred on the protection circuit board. It is out of warrantee so I am deciding what to do. I have refurbished JBL 4425 studio monitors which are amazing. For now I am using a Crown LXi 1500 with polypropylene coupling caps installed. Damping factor controls big woofers precisely which Prima Luna could not do. PrimaLuna was quiet but Crown is SILENT. Have to say the Crown was designed to run speakers like the 4425's. It sounds amazing and very toe tappingly musical. A winner.

[@phatjbl]

Agree on the remote for a $5700 dollar amplifier. Wonder what they charge for a replacement if you lose or damage the one supplied. I have a prima luna prologue power amp. I put KT88 tubes in mine and replaced all pre tubes. I think it improves things those extra watts are faster. Sure the El 34 sound more tubey if you like. I think the company are making a decent product for the price even giving that all prices have jumped a fair bit over recent years. In Australia we pay way more for everything given shipping currency conversion etc. Great review Johnny.

[@johnnikiforakis872]

FWIW My Cayin CS88 only runs 8 tubes, 4 preamp and 4 power and is an AB design. Yes they run a bit hot but not enough to warm the room in the winters or make that much of a difference in an air conditioned room in the summer (I live in Southern Greece btw) :) BTW I have noticed that choice of tubes makes a difference in the heat produced. My more "audiophile" set up (That I rarely use) consists of 4xGold Lion KT88, PSVane UK 6sn7 and tungsol 6sl7 and is appreciably warmer on the summers than my main setup (4xEH El34 and tungsol 6sl7 and 6sn7). Honestly as a Klipsch Forte 4 user, I would not consider using these speakers with anything "harsher" than this tube amp in triode mode (and even then the costlier KT88 setup can get a bit much at times). They are too "energetic" in the upper mids and highs and what I was going for was a rich and fatigue free sound that is still detailed, lively (dynamic) and real sounding (don't mind the coloration ;) ). And this combo provides it in spades. Just add decent sources and you are set. P.S No hum on my Cayin. Its dead quiet even if you stick your ears to the Speakers, unless a tube is starting to go bad...

[@shimtest]

if they marketed as an amp + radiator they would double their customer base

[@martinmiller7623]

A amp to curl up with on a cold winter night?

[@glichasasha750]

Stove too?

[@mfr58]

I'm surprised Prima Luna can't get inaudible levels of hum on a power amp. Have you asked them whether this is normal?

[@johnwitt9477]

Love the Nick Cave slippers!

[@stevezeidman7224]

Terrific job, John. I’d love to try a tube amp but what I’m really interested is getting a real tube effect. Loved the Gaucho reference. Perhaps I want a little butter.

[@gryphongryph]

Was thinking about it’s predecessor a few years back, settled on the Supratek Cabernet pre into a Belles class A power amp, in my small room, when on, the temperature goes from 21c to 27 / 28c in about 3 hours and stays there, in winter it is great 😂

[@epi2045]

I have three amps in my system; Class AB Mark Levinson 200 wpc, NuPrime Class D 170 wpc, and a custom tube SET Class A 3 wpc. My tube amp is used 90% of the time and it has plenty of punch and dynamics to run a pair of Wilson Audio Watt/Puppy.

[@paulroscelli2545]

As long as you’re doing tubes… What about the LTA 40 Z plus? It would be interesting to hear your take

[@slam854]

JD, I have the PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium HP with same preamp = to what you have there. I ditched my Atma-Sphere M60s' for this product. They are fabulous gear but my JBL 4425 monitors need more bass control. I use the preamp on a modified Crown XLi 1500. Klipsch forum suggested changing the small circuit coupling caps which were replaced with high quality polypropylene audio caps. It was a complete success with a quieter noise floor than the PrimaLuna & almost servo control of the low end. The cap mod gave the Crown an air, openness and dimensionality it did not have before, toe tapping, foot stomping musicality Crown is not known for. Complete success.

[@tedjensen8841]

Agree with you on remote quality. Needs to be improved. Bel Canto Audio is my favorite when it comes to remote control quality.

[@Merseybeer]

For most people their way of interacting with the amp will be through the remote. If I’m spending near 6000 grand I expect the remote to feel like it.

[@yowild9629]

circuit hum mostly mean power line dirtiness that comes from conecting to ac mains . or electro magnetic interfierence near by transformers picking that up .ect. solutions could be using an emf surpression circuit that eliminates that is’sue or some power filtering stuff ;)

[@paulb.3227]

Mean power ?? 🙂

[@yowild9629]

@@paulb.3227 power as Ac 50/60hz 230/240 v between connectin to / what have you Most homes does not have this thougth out or built in so the noise is felt in audio

[@dowster64]

I have the PL Prologue Premium, an older,.simpler model but swapping from the EL34's to KT150's made a world of difference to the sound. Preferred it potentially due to the rype of music I listen to. More rock than jazz.

[@lilpoindexter]

I have a tube amp. Its summer in Los Angeles. Ive had my tube amp on for 2 hours...jeez...i can feel the heat emanating off it, from 6 feet away. Love the sound, but perhaps Ill stick with the solid state amps till the fall.

[@diegobalzarini1994]

I've been waiting for your opinion on this for quite sometime. Thanks

[@Pikonz]

Kia ora John - great to see you reviewing valve gear! It is waaaaaaay more finicky than solid state but the pay off comes with fussing over it - I recommend not putting it on the floor as vibrations create an order of magnitude (or possibly two) of SQ loss for tubes than for silicon gear and you can't just put a doorstop on it. I've never had decent bass from tubes although I'm sure that's more about my budget than anything else. However, I've had great results from tubes - even flea amp SETs - and rel subs using the high level inputs. They are a PITA to dial in but once you get there you get there it can be magic. Again, it's fiddly and TBH not conducive to a swap-in/swap-out reviewer's set up but for OCD types with time to tweak l reckon it's worth the fuss. Looking forwar to you trying some more valve amps in the future - hopefully something by decware - though if you do that you will probably be stuck with the Klipschs for review...

[@mikejmcfarlane]

there is something mythical about tube amps, I'll never be in the market for one, so I really enjoyed your deep dive into this beautiful piece of audio engineering

[@hank8499]

Thanks for giving your great review. I have had this PL evo 400i for 1 1/2 years now pair to Elac Vela fs 407 which are not very sensitive speakers however do have the folded ribbon tweeters. I also did a very serious upgrade on the pwer cord that made the biggest difference in the total sound, I use an Audioquest Firebird powercord for improved top to bottom range as well as much more layered and effortless tonal presentation. I am using the stock el-34s. If people want more guts and grunt roll in some kt88, kt 120, kt150. I really wished he would have played some vinyl with this amp to get the best review. 😮 Bottom line is I am very glad I made the investment in an heirloom quality amp.

[@binhdu5579]

Try NOS tubes and you will love it a little more. Emperex from Holland is a good start.

[@violin-schwerin]

I use the wharfedale Lintons with the el84 luxman sq-n150, heavenly in my 25 m2 room. also stellar with my hd600

[@jeg569]

Not only does it look like a vintage 3 bar electric fire, it does the job of one too.

[@SuperBicycleRepairMan]

Interesting review. Sounds like a great little amp for a desktop pc. Might be worth looking at a cheap dac that works well with a USB input.

[@taidee]

Great review JD, thank you.

[@rutgervannahuijs263]

absolutely agree on the remote control issue...I bought a Hifi Rose RS150 a couple of months ago, the remote is laughable, I got a astro alan as a gift from a friend. A 100% ali expres product, it has a remote that is similar in quality. I used to own a Pathos logos, now there's a remote control...a friend of mine has Kef LS60 wireless speakers...6500 euro, great product but is also shipped with an absolute rediculous remote...anyway...thank you for all the great content! Best wishes!

[@jeedmodorn5494]

High quality tube amps stand in defiance to those who consider "distortion" and "color" a sacrilege. It's proof that you can have your cake and eat it too nowadays. Lots of details, sprinkled with some magic dust in al l the right places.

[@farklek]

No, no, you are totally right about the remote! Unless you are walking up to the hardware to control it, then the remote might be the main way that you physically interface with the product. Just like a really beautifully made volume knob gives you a good feeling of high quality, the remote is another opportunity to remind the customer that a company cares about the details. If something you CAN see is built cheaply then what if the things you can't?

[@haroldm4600]

Again, someone taking Darko’s entirely subjective impression of the remote at face value and extrapolating it to the product and brand in general. If you haven’t seen, held and used this remote personally your comment adds nothing to the discussion. Yes, your statement is correct, “If something you CAN see is built cheaply then what about the things you can’t.” The problem with it is that Darko is the only reviewer or owner of the product I’m aware of that has expressed this opinion about the remote.

[@Quicksilver1934]

I'm totally lost on this discussion about the remote. I have the Evo 300 and my remote is solid piece of machined metal. No rattling buttons. Maybe I was one of the lucky ones I guess.@@haroldm4600

[@pixym]

Hi Mr Darko. I am quite agree with you with the quality of all that comes with the main product specially at this price tag.

[@Aleksandar.D]

I'm so thrilled with Roksan Kandy K2 (learning) remonte. And K2 was originally sold for the third of the price of Prima Luna.