Solid state amplifier $2K Used or New


System B&W Nautilus 805
Audio Electronics AE-1 Preamp
Meridian 506.20 Cd Player
Synergistic Research Cabling

Looking at possiby Krell KSA50S, Krell KSA100S, Ayre V-3, BAT VK200, McCormack DNA 125, NAD S200
Any other suggestions?
stowne1
I don't like the 805s with Krell or NAD. I think The 805s are too dry to be paired with amps that white and analytical sounding. The NAD in particular is no good. It sounds a little bleached out and harsh to me. I think Classe is a natural choice for B&W. Tubes, although, would probably be better. It depends on what sort of sound your going for. This is just my opinion as I perhaps like a smoother sound than some.
I suggest a used Rowland m 2 for sligtly above 2k$. Absolut fantastic sound. It was much better than my previosly owned Pass Aleph5 in every aspect. As a bonus the best build quality I have ever seen and its strikingly beautiful
Hello-
I've owned an Ayre V3. I never thought I would say this but you really owe it to your self to hear an Audio Research 100.2, depending on what your impedence match is between your amp and preamp the difference can be night and day. I had been useing an Audible Illusions M3A with my Ayre and it never came to life. The Ayre is fairly low. The 100.2 was a text book match with my AIM3A. The difference is better high and low end and dynamics in spades. I could never figure it out why reviewers never empraised the 100.2 although that should never be an issue when auditioning a amp. Do yourself a favor and go listen to one. By the way the Krell will make your ears bleed, the BAT is preety good and the McCormack is great bang for the buck. IMHO...All the Best-Gary
Some additional suggestions: Aragon 8008BB dual monoblocks (loads of current control for nice, tight bass. Used around $1800), Belles 150A Hot Rod (liquid, musical sound, around $1500 new, I think).
I've owned 3 Classe amps over the years, Classe 10, Classe CA-100, Classe CA-200. The 200 was the best and can be found for $1500 +/- depending on age and condition. For the price, its a lot of amp for the money. Personally, I didn't like Bryston but many people do. Listened to a friend's Krell and thought it not to be very musical, accurate perhaps but didn't do it for me.