2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a amplifier. Need help. ML Classe

Hello,

I am looking for a power amplifier but I don't know which one I should get. I use to own a Denon POA-S10 power amp, before I sold it so that I can upgrade my amplifier. In the meantime, i am using a Denon POA-T3 as a temp until I get a power amplifier. I never owned this amplifier so I don’t know how they sound. I need some help because most of these amplifier I have to order it online or through a phone. I am looking for a good power amplifier that is going to last me for a long time. My price range is up to $3,500.00. All of these power amplifiers that I pick out are used. I need some help, suggestion, and recommend which amplifier I should get or look into.

Mark Levinson 332 ($3200)
Classe CA-400 ($2800)
Classe CA-301 ($3100)
Pass Labs X250 ($3600)

Thanks,
Brian

My System:
Mark Levinson No. 380 Preamp
ProAc Reponse 2.5 Speaker
Denon DP-S1 CD Transport
Classe DAC-1 D/A Converter
Denon POA-T3 Power Amp (Temp)
Denon POA-S10 Monoblocks (had before)
Stealth Vandrig XLR & AES/EBU
MIT Shotgun RCA Interconnect
Kimber Monocle XL Speaker Cable
dzzymnk
scon90
46 posts
 
Have you thought a tube amp? Pro-ac speakers do really well with tubes.
perfectimage
406 posts
 
I have never tried anything else on your list but I have two Ca 400's and I am very pleased with them.
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
I agree with Scon90, the ProAcs would sound great with some high power tube amps like an ARC VT200, which should be obtainable for your price.

I think it would be a significant improvement over all of the fine amps you mentioned.
anthonyf
21 posts
 
I own a Classe CA 300, and love it. I believe the CA 301 includes some of the new Omega-class circuit design.
abecollins
219 posts
 
Tube amps can sound very nice but they have to be up to the task of driving possibly difficult speakers. I have owned Audio Research VT100 MKII and currently use the Conrad-Johnson Premier 11a tube amp in my system.

As for solid-state amps, I think Classe is outstanding especially considering its reasonable price (compared to some megabuck brands). I owned Classe CA-200 and listened to my friend's CA-400's. They both sound very good to my ears.
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