2. amps-preamps
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Best sounding low power (under 80watts) Class AB amp?

What the world needs is a nice sounding lower power class AB amplifier under 35lbs. I'm tired of power sucking light-bulb dimming Class A designs and 80+ pound Class AB immovable boat anchors on dollies. Tubes and Class D need not apply.

An Audio Research 100.2, CJ MF-80/MF-2250 come to mind. What else is there?

What do you think? I'm I the only one?

--Sensible in Springfield.

128x128hi2alex2
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pabs85
53 posts
 

Naim Supernait 3 gets relentlessly high praise, 80wpc, small normal

size and weight, but comes with Naim’s quirks. 

rumblestrip's avatar
rumblestrip
48 posts
 

Van Alstine Vision SET 120

25lbs

 

 

hi2alex2's avatar
hi2alex2 OP
12 posts
 

Great suggestions. Would love to find a Motif MS50 been looking for one for years. A Quad 405 is fun idea too but def need to recap/refresh. I have to look at some older Ayre Acoustics stuff, nice. Schiit Vidar maybe... Spectral DMA50? nice but schematics and support? I respect what Van Alstine does but his build/aesthetic doesn't appeal to me. The reason for staying below 80watts is I don't have the need for more power. I own a Pass Aleph 3 and @30/8ohms 60/4ohms its plenty of power for my speakers.  All great ideas/suggestions audio friends!

hi2alex2's avatar
hi2alex2 OP
12 posts
 

Yeah, the Vidar is out. I know it's high value and a fine amp but I can’t bring myself to buy a product that doesn’t have chassis mounted RCAs. Just can’t do it. It the audio line in the sand for me.

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