Rowland --- older amps vs the newer models?

I own a Model 2 with the matching BPS. I've threatened to sell it, but then I hook it up & it just sounds very, very good.
I've heard the new ICE based amps. None of them sound any better than my Model 2.
I've seen Model 2s here for around $2K. If 150 watts into 4 ohms is enough for you, I'd try one.

I own a pair of 201s and have compared the 501s at home. Both sound similar -- tonally well balance with good freq extension, quick and very musical. Although small in size these amps are built solid and look very attractive. They are designed to be left on 24/7 (little current draw) and run very effeciently. I haven't heard the older model JR amps.

Wadia 861>>JR 201s>>B&W804 Spk.

As for the old ones......I would go with the 3s. Not as "rolled off in the highs" as the 5s and 7s are. I mainly prefer it because of the output transistors. And they run cooler.

I won't comment on the ICEpower ones. Some use the ASP series, which has a SMPS on the amp module. Some use a separate SMPS. Vicor, I believe. Not that should matter much to the consumer what the brand is.

i haven't heard the newest rowland amps, but i have m-12's that sounded very similar to my ears like the pass aleph series (with less heat and weight, and able to handle higher speaker loads): (almost) tube sound without the tubes- i personally couldn't ask for much more than that. plus, rowland has undergone some unusual (somewhat rapid) changes in their product lines since the m-12 was discontined. and,
i still have a rowland consumate preamp which has 200 VOLUME STEPS and sounds incredible. the built-in phono sounds good and is QUIET even for moving coil settings. so, in conclusion, i'm (very) happy they have a proud history of making some very good-sounding solid-state. and, i just don't have the overwhelming urge to go out and get a synergy or a 302.

Had my model 8 with the original power supply ( choke) for many years. It's built like a tank and sounds much smoother than some of the newer models IMHO. I have compared choke vs. dual mono supply version and again prefer the choke version. If you can hear one I think you will hear what I mean.