Long-lasting and low maintenance sounds like SS to me. About 18 months ago, I listened to a few solid-state amps roughly in your price category. I was then using a Classe CP-800 preamp to Janszen electrostatic speakers. Here are my three favorites--
I liked the Pass X250.8 very much, with its creamy midrange. I had to send it back because of the heat. Your room may tolerate that better than mine, and if so, I suggest you give it a listen. Reno Hifi is a good dealer IMO.
A second favorite for sound was the Classe CA-2300, now discontinued (or about to be). I sent *that* back because I could hear the fan running in quiet passages of string quartets. Other than that, I found it a highly musical amp, unflappable and really enjoyable.
So much for amps with excess emissions!
I finally decided on a Bryston 4B3 -- you might prefer the next larger model. They are very reliable, and with the "3" (also called cubed) series, Bryston has got a very refined sound. Unless you just don’t want a Bryston, I suggest an audition. You might like it as much as I do!
You’ve got a fun problem to solve. Have fun solving it!
I liked the Pass X250.8 very much, with its creamy midrange. I had to send it back because of the heat. Your room may tolerate that better than mine, and if so, I suggest you give it a listen. Reno Hifi is a good dealer IMO.
A second favorite for sound was the Classe CA-2300, now discontinued (or about to be). I sent *that* back because I could hear the fan running in quiet passages of string quartets. Other than that, I found it a highly musical amp, unflappable and really enjoyable.
So much for amps with excess emissions!
I finally decided on a Bryston 4B3 -- you might prefer the next larger model. They are very reliable, and with the "3" (also called cubed) series, Bryston has got a very refined sound. Unless you just don’t want a Bryston, I suggest an audition. You might like it as much as I do!
You’ve got a fun problem to solve. Have fun solving it!