Best used amp for around 500

Muse (early) version Model One-Hundred sometimes go for $500.
Keep in mind that certain versions of this amp are much more than $500, such as the limited 2000 Edition. There are about a dozen versions of this model and it was made for over ten years.
Early versions go for about $500-$650. There was a review in the April 1991 Stereophile on page 174 of a very early version. FYI, what year was a particular model made? The first two numbers of the serial numbers will tell you this.

In no particular order there are: A Conrad Johnson Sonographe SA150 or SA250, or even better for a little more is the CJ MF2100. All are about 125 watts at 8 Ohms.

Next there is the older version Bryston 3B and 4B amplifiers, still under warranty (20 years transferable) Check the age with Bryston before you buy (ask seller for the serial number). They've made these for many years. I think the newer ones are 3B-NRB, etc. Not quite sonically up to the ST amps, but very very good for $500.

Also look at Acurus A150 and A250. Acurus does make some multichannel amps as well.

I will suggest Counterpoint SA-100, used $400-$550. If you like it and have extra funding you can always upgrade it by the original designer Mike Elliott, former Counterpoint CEO, at Alta Vista Audio (www.altavistaaudio.com).

FYI, I am not affiliated with Alta Vista Audio at all.

Happy Listening.

Regards,

Otto

I would just like to mention the Classe 70. It is warm, musical, very reliable & has a good amount of headroom, but I can't say that it is laid back. I've seen them running around for about $400.