Recommendations for a new 2-channel amp


I know there are many threads looking for new amps but each of our cases and needs are unique. With all that said, here’s my case.

I had a 5.1 home theater system and have sold off a lot of it. My system now consists of a pair of Paradigm Signature S2 speakers on sand filled VTC stands. One REL R528 sub base, an Anthem AVM-60 preamp, and an Oppo 103 blue ray player. I just sold my Anthem P5 because it was just too heavy to move around and I don’t need 5 channels anymore.

My intention is to keep the Paradigm Signature S2 speakers and temporarily use the Anthem AVM-60 but I need to replace the amp with something new.

At first I thought an Anthem P2 would be a good choice since I’d basically have the same thing I just sold but there are so many other excellent amps that it’s mind blowing just figuring out where to begin. Then I saw the McIntosh CM302 thinking it would be a big improvement over the P2. It’s not as heavy (~35-40lbs less), American made with quality, parts and service is easy and they seem to hold their own in the value department. Not to mention I like the big VU meters and the overall cosmetics. Then I saw the Advance Paris A10 Classic. It’s one beautiful amplifier. And just today it was suggested to look at the Luxman 507Z. My budget is in the $4K or less range so the Luxman is out.

My use will be mostly streaming movies or the occasional Blue Ray and occasionally music streaming or CD’s.

I’m open to suggestions so please help me decide. Is the CM302 a good choice, does it deliver all the clarity that it’s provided? In my opinion a power amp should do just that, amplify the signal, not boost, attenuate or color the sound from the source. Will the CM302 do that or is the P2 a better choice or something else?

oldschool1

Rogue Sphinx V3 magnum with Gold Lyon upgraded tubes. You will not find a more musical amp. This amp can play with the big boys.

I have experience with a few of the Advance Paris (AP) models as a friend is a dealer.  The A10 is nice but my recent time with the AP MyConnect 250 revealed it to great sounding and versatile option.  All the AP MyConnect levels (60, 150, and 250) are also worth your investigation IMHO