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B&K ST-140 vs ex-442 sound charactor

I currently have an st-140 (105 watt version) driving my Zu Omen Defs. I love the Tube like warmth and mellow presentation. I'm going to have the caps replaced. However, I have a chance on a one owner ex-442. Basically the same chasis and footprint as the 140, just with 200 watts ch. I really do not need extra power since the Omen Defs are extremely efficient. However, I was possibly thinking of purchasing the ex-442 and have Caps replaced and then just place it in my system since the amp has been pretty much papered by the one owner. I purchased my 140 used and not sure how many hands it has been in and it's a little "nicked" up. Just curious if there are any sound character differences between the two models?
aberyclark
aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
If you are happy with your B&K ST-140, stay with B&K. DO you have an estimated cost to have the caps replaced in these units?


About $250 and that includes installing a new, longer power cord. The current cord is fine, however, it's about 4 inches too short. The repair person suggested doing all caps at same time. One of the caps is "swelling" a little. 

unsound
7,329 posts
 
I've only heard the Zu's briefly at shows, so I can't comment on their particular  considerations. While the ST 140 is lovely amp for it's price and limitations, both the B&K EX442 and the c-j MF 80 share a similar sonic character, but are better. The EX44s will tighten the bottom end,  and allow for greater flexibility should you change speakers. The MF 80 is similar to the ST140 in power and sound,  but better in every way. B&K is out of business, but service should still not be too difficult to come by if needed, c-j is of course still thriving.
aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
I've only heard the Zu's briefly at shows, so I can't comment on their particular  considerations. While the ST 140 is lovely amp for it's price and limitations, both the B&K EX442 and the c-j MF 80 share a similar sonic character, but are better. The EX44s will tighten the bottom end,  and allow for greater flexibility should you change speakers. The MF 80 is similar to the ST140 in power and sound, but better in every way. B&K is out of business, but service should still not be too difficult to come by if needed, c-j is of course still thriving.
Thanks for feedback. Conrad Johson SS amps get very high praises. The 442 looks to be the better deal. 
mesch
3,520 posts
 
So it seems would cost you $550 to own a refurbished EX442, vs. $250 for a refurbished St-140. You like the B&K sound with your speakers. You seem to have the $300 in your audio budget. The EX442 may, and possibly be likely, to prove better in your system. As aberyclark mentions the extra power will not hurt and might prove beneficial should you purchase different speakers. It seems that the only debate you have is the possibility that the $300 might be better spent on upgrades else where in your system. That debate could well be left for later. The ST-140 could be sold to recover some of the cost.

As, based on your original post, I am inclined to believe you WANT the EX442, go for it.




aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
As, based on your original post, I am inclined to believe you WANT the EX442, go for it.


Yes. In the scheme of things, $550 is dirt cheap for an amp plus I already know the general sound characteristics. 
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