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The Most Musical Class A/B Power Amplifier??

Although I would rather have a used Mark Levinson, Pass Labs or Krell driving my new Maggies 1.6's I don't think it can happen. At my age I've got to think ahead to if/when one of these heavy monster amps will need repairs. Plus buying used, the likelyhood is that at minimum there will be capacitors that need to be replaced. I don't treasure having to pack up and ship one of these heavy amps for repairs. I don't think my back can take it.

So, my new focus is to find a class A/B 150 to 250 watt (8 ohms/double at 4 ohms) power amp that is musical with depth, produce voices and choral music well, has plenty of detail, is tube like, weighs less than 100LBS and can produce a wide sound field. I would also be interested in info regarding a pre-amp that would work well with the power amp in the most supportive and musical way. I am mostly analog but I do have a great CD player and many CD's. However 90% of the time I will play records and "Tape Project" reel to reel tapes. Thank you so much in advance for all of your great comments. I appreciate you taking the time to respond.
rbwinterlink
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transnova's avatar
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transnova
350 posts
 
THE BALANCED VERSION OF THE ARAGON 8008 IS QUITE GOOD.IT SOUNDS GREAT AND WILL DRIVE ANYTHING!!! i HAVE ALSO ENJOYED OFFERINGS FROM MUSE,HAFLER,CLASSE,AND PLINIUS.A WELL CARED FOR AND PROPERLY USED AMP OF RECENT VINTAGE(LESS THAN 10 YEARS OLD)SHOULD NOT HAVE ANY PROBLEMS,

LARRY
sarcher30
596 posts
 
Parasound Halo A21 is an excellent amp. It meets your requirements and the price is right.
sarcher30
596 posts
 
I've had good results with my Aesthetix Calypso preamp and the Parasound Halo A21. They work well together.
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davt
500 posts
 
I have had a Belles Ref. 150A for a few years now and it has been great. I am currently auditioning the Belles Ref.350A and it is even better, more musical, delicate, detailed. I really like it. I have looked at the Pass 250.5 and Sim audio but the size turns me off. I am going to try a VTL 150 this weekend. I have spoken to some people who are very familiar with Belles and the new statement SA-100 is supposed to be nicer than the Ref. 150A. Just some options. PS, my system has gone through some changes, speakers are now Verity Audio Encore, speaker wire Nordost Frey 2m and CDP is the Naim CDX2. Shopping spree.
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