2. amps-preamps
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$1k, new, power amp, 100w or less, what do you say

I am looking for a new power amp. No more than 100w, no less than 30. Tube, ss, class d, mono-blocks, whatever. I have a home brew 12au7 based pre-amp, home built speakers most like Oskar Heil Aulos, HK CD player w/ Scott Nixon dac. Listen to classical and Jazz. Would I like to have Krell monoblocks or Rowland Research?, Yes. Can I afford them?, no. I know this is not a lot of money for high end audio, but it is all I can spend at this time. Please advise. Thanks.
jw94055
miner42
709 posts
 
A used Rotel RB-1080 (200 w/ch) can be had for $650. A highly regarded amp for the money. A less-powered RB-1070 (130 w/ch) can be had for $500.
ecruz
402 posts
 
or a McCormack DNA 0.5 for around $600.
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
What are the speakers efficiency rating?
jw94055 OP
125 posts
 
My speakers are rated at 89db/one watt. Is there a brand new power amp for $1k worth having?
warnerwh
539 posts
 
A Rotel 991 or 1080 is what I'd buy. The 991 is basically the same amp. A used Conrad Johnson Sonographe can also be a good choice.

You may as well buy used as these amps I mention above aren't very old at all and will retain their value much better than any new piece of gear. Most people take very good care of their equipment and it is typically in nice condition.
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