FULL UPDATE:
The Brown Electronic Lab (BEL) 1001 amp is currently sold in a Mk V version. They are not exactly Class A as described above. However, they do sound like one in some ways. The amp is a 50wpc stereo unit into 8 ohms, 100wpc into 4 ohms, 200wpc into 2 ohms, etc. It is best in bridged mode for Mono operation. In this mode it is 200wpc into 8ohms, 400wpc into 4 ohms, etc.
The List Price is $3,895 with an option for a 12v. trigger for $100 more. They are definitely built like a tank and look fairly plain compared to some of the audio candy out there. However, they are some of the greatest sounding amps currently available at any price.
There are major sonic differences between the past versions so don't expect current world class performance from a Mk II. However, it will have the same basic character and sound as a modern Mk V.
I don't suggest contacting Richard Brown directly. Instead, contact me off list if you're in Northern CA or call one of his dealers for more information. They are Audio Concepts in Houston. Ask for Parth at 713-527-0774. Let him know I sent you!
BEL also makes cables which are a great value. Although I have occasionally heard more synergistic matches with some gear/speakers from other cable manufacturers the BEL cables were only 25% or less of the cost of the replacement cable. Also, the margin of improvement was at most 10%.
You can check out my system here on A-Gon... I'm definitely biased. However, I feel confident about these amps and cables being true values in the Audiophile community.
