Chinese Tube amps

Libertyc

What do you guys think of Chinese tube audio? Ebay has some good deals, even with the shipping. Check out links below. This amp used EL34s -50 watts x 2 in utlra-linear mode or 20watts x 2 for triode mode. I can have it shipped to my door for $493.
He also has an Integrated KT88 Push Pull Tube Amp which is rated at 65 watts x 2 in standard mode or 30 watts x 2 for triode mode shipped for $625.


links:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=73369&item=5767225549&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=5763418657&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1

Early B.

I've been checking out this dude's products for a while. He has great feedback and some of his products seem to be pretty decent, especially for the price. Here are my thoughts:

UPSIDE:
-- low prices
-- low prices
-- low prices

DOWNSIDE:
-- may not have a warranty (or at least the ability to get it serviced easily)
-- possible QA issues are not uncommon
-- may need some mods to really sound good
-- probably a low resell value
-- no reviews on most of the products

I'd say it's somewhat of a gamble, although I've had good luck with a Chinese CD player bought in a similar fashion (I modded it, though). To minimize the downsides, I would recommend sticking with "brand name" Chinese gear such as Ming Da or Cayin because they are easier to resell and there are existing reviews and recommendations for mods for some of them. Also, I'd definitely add $150 - $200 to the total cost to modify the amp.

Libertyc

Thanks for the response.
I might try some of this guys stuff ...income tax returny is coming soon.