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Class A amplifier choice, need suggestions

What is your favorite class A amp and why? There are many here on Audiogon... Levinson, Krell, Pass Labs, Plinius and an occaisional Accuphase A50V. I am driving Proac Response 3.8s (88dB efficiency). I recently auditioned a Pass Aleph 5 and was stunned by the presentation at only 60wpc.

Your input is much appreciated!
blueswan
elevick
2,640 posts
 
Sleeper of Class A amps: Yamaha M80 The whole M series is awesome. It was just as clean as my Threshold, just not as warm. Handles 3 sets of speakers and has built in gain control. Awesome bargain.
hammy
176 posts
 
Plinius SA-100 MkIII makes me happy. Very warm detailed sound, great bass. SOUNDS BETTER IN CLASS A MODE, but I also believe you shouldn't limit yourself to class A. I'm looking to experiment with a good tube amp when life settles down a bit. The Cary 805c is supposed to sound good w/ my speakers as well(Silverline SonataII-which I adore).
tswhitsel
126 posts
 
I know they're a bit rare, but let's not forget the BEL 1001. Exceptional performance and often overlooked because you don't see them for sale much.
bigkidz
3,451 posts
 
The Kinergetics KBA-75 may be the best value in this area, they can be had for $500-$650 and while not the best of the bunch here, are cheap for a starting point.

BigkidZ
south_park
105 posts
 
Don't forget about the rarest (and ultra high quality) Class A amps (at least in the US), Gryphon has been making strictly class A for a lot of years and now they have a massive class A model as well as a more massive class AB. If you want a room heater, this is what you need.
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