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Another 'Which Amp' Question

Looking for recommendations for an amp of 100-200WPC to replace my current setup.

Present system:
Dahlquist DQ10’s (recapped, mirrored)
Mcintosh C28 Preamp
SAE A202 Power amp

Budget is somewhat limited, I was hoping to keep it at $1500 or less if possible for something along the lines of a Bryston (4b), Krell (KST100), Mac (2205), Threshold or other reasonably ’high end’ amp. Perhaps some day in the future I might trade up to a pair of Logan CLS II’s (or other...) in which case the amp would be powering those, but that’s a long way off for now.

I used to have a Mac 2150 before I owned these speakers, and what it did to my friend’s set of Paradigms was amazing. I can only guess that there would be a dramatic improvement over the present SAE amp which is just ’alright’... it drives the speakers well enough but lacks soundstage. Looking for the next step up.

Thanks in advance for your input.
parabolic
adg101
1,063 posts
 
If you're thinking someday to get your hands on a set of ML CLS II's, I wouldn't just walk but run away from the Krell KST100. Never heard them together but have separately. I think that combination could be cold, lean and fatiguing. I'll admit I've never been much of a Krell fan.

I'd lean towards the Bryston 4B-ST if those are your only options locally. If you have a Parasound dealer, drag home one of the Halo amps as they are very good. I've never listened to any of the Odysses Audio gear but they get a ton of great press here and I believe they're a direct buy company. I'm sure they have a return policy so not much risk there.
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Fair enough.

Actually, a couple other amps popped up on the radar, one of which is a Parasound Halo.  There's also the 4BST, though it's a 3-digit date code which tells me it's well out of warranty, which gives me a moment of pause.

I'm taking a huge leap buying an amp 'sight unseen'.  My hope is to improve the performance of the DQ10's beyond what they're doing with the old SAE amp.  My old MC2150 did wonders to the imaging and presence of a friend's Paradigm speakers, so I can only hope a better quality amp would offer similar improvements.

Still hoping for some other viewpoints.  Thanks!

2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,868 posts
 
I have a Parasound A21 and have had an Odyssey Stratos. They was no comparison, the John Curl designed A21 was much better. Better built, better sound, great current and better customer service. The A21 has had no problem driving any speaker even my Magnepans. It is neutral and powerful. I think the Bryston is also a good choice. My two cents... good luck.

BTW I had an SAE 501 amp and P101 preamp a long time ago in the 80's. The A21 is FAR superior to that amp.
oem-wheels
196 posts
 
For the same price as the A21 you can get a Classe CA2100.. which I prefer from the 2.. I've owned both and still have the CA2100... more detail, fully balanced, made in Canada, not Taiwan..  built like a tank...
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Ok, down to:

Mac (one of three)
4B (ST or SST)
Parasound Halo A21

For those who recommended replacing the C28, please share your thoughts on why, and what you'd suggest in its place.

Thanks to all!
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