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100W+ solid-state amps known for beautiful mids

Quad 909 back in the day had a reputation for the best mids running up to $5000. I've used it in the past and I would definitely say that the mids were the highlight on that amp. It wasn't overly coloured, a hint of warmth, but it had a purity and sweetness to its mids. Unfortunately, mostly everything else was okay at best, kind of rolled off at both ends and congested stage-wise.

I'm looking for that same purity and sweetness without sacrificing the rest of the sonic traits. What have been your guys' contenders for 100W+ solid state power amps with the best mids?
128x128hedonism
1971gto455ho's avatar
1971gto455ho
499 posts
 
The lingo with which one uses to describe a piece of their system amuses me. Certainly in different systems with different room treatments will always generate a different sound, you either like it or you don’t. Kind of like a waste of time…Warm, soft, in, out, up, down, light, dark ? I use vintage Yamaha pc5002m / pc4002m together, to date I’ve had nothing better.
oldaudiophile
312 posts
 
@hedonism, the obvious answer to your question is, it depends, to some extent, on core component matching and, ultimately, on the business end of any sound system... the speakers. If 100 watts (or thereabouts) and $5.000 (give or take a little) are the strict parameters, you might want listen to what Simaudio Moon has to offer or seriously discounted or used McIntosh gear. I'm sure the other recommendations are good, too, but I try to refrain from recommending stuff I haven't heard myself and liked.
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 
Ayre strength of the topology is balanced, i would look elsewhere for single ended.

As for SMC, you got bad advice as Steve ( yes i am a fan ) advise to call him w serial and model BEFORE buying used.

Jim
stibi
51 posts
 
Check Pilium - whatever you pick from the Divine line. 
68pete
1,001 posts
 
Any of the older Mark Levinson 3 series 331, 332, 335, 336. When recapped they are amazing for mids and highs. Not bad for bass, but there are better for that. 
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