As with solid state amps, there are good and bad valve (tube) amps and you must listen in your system before purchase, as it might not suit you or your system.

Some vintage tube amps are great but the prices are going through the roof as more and more people cotton on to how good they can be. Bear in mind that an old tube amp might need some re-furb to make it work or even make it safe.

As to safe - certain 'cheap' amps you see on E-Bay may be dangerous, so buy from a trusted source if this is your choice.

David