The Scott 299B is the kind of integrated amplifier that makes you question why you ever bothered with separates.

Wife Acceptance Factor

He Says

It's only 14 watts but it's a Scott 299B from 1960—the chrome chassis alone is worth the price of admission, and these things are climbing fast. I can get this one for $900, already restored, which means I won't have to spend another dime. It'll sound incredible with the Klipsch, and it's small enough to fit on the bookshelf.

She Says

Small? That thing is the size of a cocker spaniel and weighs as much. Where exactly is the bookshelf going? And 'restored' means someone else's soldering—I'm not sure that's a selling point. Also, we still need a new vacuum.

The Ruling

SHE SAID MAYBE

Maybe. Go explore some new music on Amazon Music while I decide.

Built in 1960, this was H.H. Scott’s first stereo integrated, following the mono 299. It uses a pair of EL84 output tubes per channel in an ultra-linear push-pull configuration, good for about 14–18 watts. That doesn’t sound like much, but don’t let the number fool you.

The 299B’s sound is pure intoxication. The midrange is liquid and present, with a bloom that makes vocals feel three-dimensional. Treble is sweet without being etched, bass is punchy and rhythmic rather than deep and flabby. It’s not a microscope—it’s a storyteller.

What makes it special is the chrome chassis. That mirror-finish faceplate and the two big meters on later Scott models are gone here—the 299B is all business. Inside, it’s point-to-point wiring on terminal strips, which means a competent tech can restore it without needing a schematic and a prayer.

The caveat: do not buy one that hasn’t been serviced. The original electrolytic capacitors are ticking time bombs, and the phono stage runs low gain with enough hiss to annoy a bat. Factor in a professional rebuild ($300–500) unless the seller has receipts.

But once restored, the 299B outperforms nearly every new integrated under $2,000. It drives efficient speakers (think Klipsch Heresy or JBL L100) with a grip that belies its wattage. Pair it with a decent turntable and you’ll forget you ever streamed a thing.

This is the amp that taught me that “tube sound” isn’t a myth—it’s a flavor, and the 299B has the best seasoning in the kitchen.

Spin it with
The 299B's midrange bloom turns Fitzgerald's voice into a living presence, and the big-band brass has just enough bite without harshness.
The amp’s punchy EL84 bass and natural horn tone let Coltrane’s tenor breathe and punch where it counts.
The 299B reveals the subtle textures in the studio trickery while keeping the energy tight and driving—especially on 'She Said She Said.'

Three records worth putting on.

Looking for a Scott 299B?
Prices vary. Affiliate link — small commission at no extra cost to you.
Find one →