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Power Amp suggestions in $2000 range ?

I have a nice sounding VAC vintage linestage and B&W matrix 805 speakers and HSU sub. My current power amp is an ancient harmankardon hk870, and everything is hooked up via Kimber PBJ's and zu speaker cables. The system sounds pretty sweet, with a nice wide soundstage but tends to become somewhat harsh and raspy, when I turn it up. I think it might be time to say goodbye to the power amp.

Does anyone have suggestions in the $2000 range (new or used)

Thanks,
Tim
resolute50f6
ron007
15 posts
 
Odyssey!!! All the hype is "for real". Ron...
monk
120 posts
 
There is a Blue Circle BC2 on Agon right now, it is killer!!! With the right 6sn7 driver, it really is magic. Listening to my pair right now has me - I can't even put into words how this amp (with Merlin speakers) really puts a smile on my face, has my feet dancing, and chair rocking on 2 and 4.

Check out Bob Neill's reviews on the BC2, as he had B&W Nautilis 805. Magic. Steel of a deal too, as you would have to spend SERIOUSLY more $$ to better it (and then it is really only a matter of taste, not neccessarily a "upgrade")I think you could drop it right into your system as is and rock on!
ejliu
109 posts
 
Used Rowland Model 1 amp or Levinson 27.
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
Does the amp have to be a tube unit? If not, and you will consider a solid state amp (both new and used), then these 4 amps are in your general budget range and offer excellent performance:
1. Bryston 4B-SST
2. Marsh A400S
3. Rotel RB-1090
4. McCormack Audio DNA-225
jwaugh
103 posts
 
Good idea to replace the power amp - it is definitely the one holding you back...

If you like VAC, the PA 100/100 is a particularly good value used at ~$1500-1600 and presents an extremely musical experience with remarkably good soundstaging for the price... you can spend the extra $ on tweaks, source or music...

My $0.02,
Jacob
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