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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
rhljazz
1,254 posts
 
A VAC PA100 would be a nice match with your preamp and have plenty of power with your B&W's. The sound can be tailored with tube choice and it is fairly compact and doesn't generate much heat for a medium powered tube amp. It is also very reliable and simple to adjust tube bias.
timo's avatar
timo
610 posts
 
I would highly recommend you listen to an Ayre V-3. 200 w/ch into 4 ohms. Should be well within your price range used. I have three of them, one in my second system and two in my main rig. They are remarkably powerful, and have great musically balanced sound, not at all harsh or raspy.
sayas
190 posts
 
Pass Aleph Series Amps, hands down the best affordable giant killer amps available.

Let us know what you buy!
jothompson
27 posts
 
I like the Bel Canto EVO series. They go for a lot less than $2k used and are great sounding. The 120 WPV EVO had better slam, control and in every other sonic way better than my extremely modded Hafler 9500 on top and the NHT SA3 on the bottom combo. But as always an opinion oriented in my system.
scottht
398 posts
 
Hands down, Rogue Magnum M120's. First of all after been in this chaos for many years, I will tell you that you can't beat Monoblocks. And for the price you are talking about, you can't beat the M120's. IMHO this is a no brainer.
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