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Help me pick a power amp

Hi, I am sure this question is asked a lot but I am finding that searching this forum is rather difficult. I have a NAD C160 pre, and I just picked up a pair of B&W DM604S2s. I was going to get a NAD C270 power amp, but I can't really find any ones used for the price I am looking to pay. I have been looking at B&K Components, because I read on the forum that they make some of the best inexpensive amps there are. Is this true? I am looking to pay around $200, although less is better. The inputs will be a computer playing .flac files and a Rega P2. Any direction would be great, thanks!
dasfreeman
bdgregory
1,716 posts
 
I've had many B&K amps and you can't go wrong with them - especially in your budget range. I've also had several Parasound amps and agree with Tommy - the HCA1000 is a good option and can be found in your range. I find the B&K amps to be a little more natural sounding, primarily because the Parasounds have a little bit of punchiness in the bass, although this characteristic is attractive with the right speakers.

The build quality of both B&K and Parasound is fantastic.
rodman99999
6,185 posts
 
Here's what a few had to say about the Hafler DH-200, the model prior to the 220(which had more power and some other audible improvements): (http://www.audioreview.com/cat/amplification/amplifiers/hafler/dh-200/PRD_115808_1583crx.aspx) There are some 220 reviews included. A number of the posters have owned NAD, Adcom, Bryston, etc and noted their preferences.
hifitime
715 posts
 
I've reread your post,and B&K does make a good amp for the buck. the ST-202 was a good one.
hifitime
715 posts
 
ST-140 too.
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
B&K is an excellent value--and to my ears, much more neutral than the NAD. I've been to their factory--very impressive products for the money, good people and they used better parts than the retail price would indicate.
I personally think B&K is one of the truly unsung companies out there today!
Good luck. See if you can find a used one.

Best,
Larry
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