2. amps-preamps
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Budget Audiophile Looking For Amplifier Suggestions

Hi All,

I'm looking suggestions for a high quality ss 2-channel amplifier (120-150 WPC) made between 1998-2005 that may have sold for $2000-3000 but today would go for $800-$1100. What would you be looking for?

Best Regards,
Mike
mikte15
mikte15 OP
16 posts
 
Kalali,

The Vincent is gorgeous but I don't think it's been around long enough such that used models are in my budget range.  If I'm wrong on this please advise.  Also, where is it made? I did a quick search but didn't find an answer to that.
mikte15 OP
16 posts
 
To all those recommending Sunfires, Bob Carver designs have been on my list for a while.  Thanks for the recommendation!
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
I only make reference to this ad because I own one, no affiliation with the seller. There is a Musical Fidelity A308 integrated for sale here on Audiogon. They don’t come up for sale too often and for good reason. I have had mine since new and still have no desire to replace it. At that time I was working in the A/V industry, and happen to meet and talk with US distributor for MF. I was surprised that he also used the A308. Thinking he would have the flagship model above costing twice as much, I asked why. He said it was more power but the A308 was a little sweeter sounding. The Soundstage review listed in the ad is spot on describing the sound. It will stretch your budget, but you would be happy for a long time.

It was made in England and the last of the products, other than flagship models to be made in England.


randy-11
1,913 posts
 
I like my Sunfire - the caps don't last forever, so you may need to replace after 20+ years.

BTW, Nominal Z: 8 ohms is fine, but be sure the entire impedance vs. freq. graph has no dips into low ohms (for most amps).  I expect a Sunfire will not care.

I've heard Vincent pre-amps and they sound nice, but I'd worry about the co. going belly up, as many small co.s do...
mikte15 OP
16 posts
 
I just found that Vincents are designed in Germany and built in China.

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