Thanks everyone. Jax--I have spoken with Lou a number of times about amp matching for my DA-1.1's. As you say, he really likes the new Modwright and he is also a fan of the Clayton's and the Parasound JC-1's. The problem is that none of these amps meet certain practical requirements that I must adhere to. Whatever amps I choose either have to fit inside my entertainment center (ideal) or on the floor behind my speakers (less ideal but if physically small this would work). The amps Lou recommends are either to large or run too hot (or both). The best bet for me would be a small switching amp that runs really cool but the problem is there don't seem to be many (any?) that put out the kind of current my DA-1.1's like to see. I've given some thought to the Bel Canto Ref 1000mkii's, the CIAudio M500mkii's (neither put out serious current) and even the Monarchy S70Pros (which run hot but are physically smallish) but none of these are ideal. I've even thought of the Odyssey Monos built in the smaller case but these, I'm told, run pretty warm as well.
So I feel like space and design limitations are making this very difficult. I'm currently using an ARC 150.2 which is a Tripath switching amp--it sounds very good but only puts out 20amps of current according to ARC specs. While this amp would be a great choice in many systems (it drove my Harbeth Compact 7's wonderfully) Lou feels it is not really giving me the best that the DA-1.1's have to offer. Also, while I've enjoyed the 150.2 I can't resist the notion that I may be able to get better sound from more advanced switching technology or going with a Class A or tube design. I also have to keep system matching in mind so whatever I get has to be driven properly by my LS26 (therefore not a too low an input impedence).
At the end of the day, what I think I want are:
1. Physically small monoblocks that run cool but put out gobs of current and can fit side by side on a regular 19" rack shelf; or
2. A stereo amp that meets the same criteria above; or
3. Physically small monoblocks (tube or solid state--heat not a factor) that can fit on the floor behind my speakers.
All of the above should be NEUTRAL in sonic character, have serious control of the bottom end and be musically correct in presentation.
My own lack of expertise may be keeping me from seeing available options so I'd really appreciate hearing back.
