Looking for intro into tube-style equipment

New forum member, looking to help my nephew (29, single, veteran) get started in audio hobby. On his own, he purchased a turntable (Audio-Technica LP60) and he’s started building a library of vinyl. He really likes listening, but when I found out he was running it through a TV soundbar, I told him I was certain we could do better. From my own equipment, I sent him home with a Pioneer Elite receiver (c.1995-2005) and some bookshelf speakers (KEF, Wharfedale, etc.). I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s with tube-style equipment, transitioning to solid state equipment, but I no longer own any tube equipment. Given that he likes the “warm” sound of vinyl, I thought he would probably enjoy the sound of tube equipment. I can’t just go out and buy him state-of-the-art McIntosh stuff, so I’m looking for help. What would be a good tube setup for someone just starting out? New or used is fine, with an eye toward economy, please. Thanks in advance for your help.

Chuck in GA

 

Modern tube equipment is either expensive or poor quality ( or both!), with the added bonus of being possibly unsafe. I would much prefer to use vintage equipment of the tube era, as the transformers were better, and they were generally much simpler to work on. This side if the pond, something like Quad, Leak or Radford, or on your side Dynaco, RCA or vintage McIntosh.
However, they will need servicing, so that adds to cost unless you're competent at DIY. One further benefit of the vintage stuff is they can be easily repaired using ordinary tools, no software, surface mount or unobtanium components.

S