2. amps-preamps
  3. 1282578205

Summertime ss amp Question

My wife has finally decided that the superb Atma-Sphere MA-2 is too hot for summer and she cant listen to it without getting an ice bath in the room. But one doesnt part with a Gem of this magnitude, so I will buy an SS amp for summer only.
Need at least 150 WPC into 4 ohms (SP Tech Revs III sens 88 db), XLR inputs,(preamp Atma-sphere MP-1) fit into 17 X 8 X 19 inch space in Stereo closet and run cool, budget under $2K used. Looking at Innersound esl-300, Cary CAD-200 currently on A'gon. Suggestions, please. Thanks.
springbok10
auxetophone
114 posts
 
Yes, search "simaudio"

Third and fourth entry under "classified":

Simaudio W-5 Limited Edition - excellent condition Amp-Solid $3300.00

Simaudio Moon W-5.3 Amp-Solid $2900.00 (this is a demo)
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Thanks. Cant find reviews of the W-5.3 except on Audio Reviews. Are you familiar with the amp? A bit above my budget - I am favoring the Bel Canto Evo2 Gen II, used, for less than $1K. In the $3K range there is a lot of competition. Any information on the W-5.3's sonic character would be apprecaited.
auxetophone
114 posts
 
I've heard it briefly, but in a system I'm not familiar with. It did sound good though. Goodwin's is selling the demo - I think they would be glad to demo it if you are interested (and within shouting distance of Boston).

Review on Soundstage

Review of W5 (prior version)
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Thank you all for your input. I have bought a used Bel Canto Evo2 Gen II for $1K. Fits in space, runs cool, balanced, and, although I have never heard it, is Stereophile Class A. 240 WPC into 4 ohms. I dont expect to replicate the sound of the MA-2, but for part-time listening, hope it is acceptable.
raquel
841 posts
 
Dennis the Menace! A Tripath digital amp like this is going to sound very different than a zero-feedback triode amplifier. I hope it is to your liking.
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