Need advice on amplifier upgrade


I currently have 802 matrix III,a rega planet cd player and a sony es receiver which I plan to upgrade soon. I'd like advice on which amps would match up well and whether I should go with an integrated amp or power amp using my sony as a pre amp until i can upgrade that down the road.
tark1
You may want to check the auction section for the Brown Electronics 2002 amp, this is a KILLER deal on a class A amp that sounds great; it has the lower extension control of Krell, the upper mids and highs of a good push/pull tube and is regarded by some writers in TAS as the amp of choice. I've seen it on Theils 7's, Martin Logins and other high in systems. It does well on all but the most layed back, darker sounding speakers. It would match nicely with the PS audio pre amp and B&W's you have. You may want to check around for a dealer who has it, or call Design Audio in Salt Lake City and speak to James. They don't carry it, but the shop has alot of reviewers come in and bring this amp to audition speakers. Good Luck.
I have read some excellent suggestions here for you already I would also suggest a used Acurus A250 if you are truly go-ing to use the SonyES as your line drive.The potential of your speakers and front end will undoubtably show the Sony to be-a limit at any rate.If you do run across the Acurus in your shopping you may like the sound as well! Good Luck!
I highly recommend the Arcam line of British integrated amps. I recently bought the Arcam 10 integrated (the top of the line) after having tube equipment for the last 7-8 years. I find the amp to be surprisingly devoid of transistor harshness that I find in Krells with a tube like midrange and highs. The best part is that these amps. are expandable with circuit add-ons that can make these into a full home theater later on. After going thru several hundred dollars on replacement tubes, I find transistor reliability to be a nice change. Arcam has several models over a wide price range. I would also take a look at Creek, Rotels, and other British models in the $300-1000 range. Try to stay away from most Japanese models. thanks, Rich M.
Check out all reviews about the Bryston 3b-st 120 w per channel .$1565. Check owner reviews at www.audio review.com Allways audition first.
Check out all reviews about the Bryston 3b-st 120 w per channel .$1565. Check owner reviews at www.audio review.com Allways audition first.