2. amps-preamps
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Which stereo amp to try under $30k

Having just made several upgrades to my system, it's now time for the amp. Given the number of amps in the 15-30k range, I'm guessing many of you have experiences with them. To get started, I'll tell you my (1) my guidance (2) my current list of options (3) My current setup. Looking forward to getting more options on my list, as I'd like to pull the trigger in about 2 months and need to start listening.

My Guidance
- Under $30k
- I need to be able to hear the amp before purchase, preferably at a local shop (SF Bay Area)
- New or used ok
- Large sound stage
- Bass
- More Bass... all the bass
- Very much prefer stereo to fit in my rack. I have small children and not enough room for monos.
- Prefer not tubes (already have a tube line stage - too hot for small children and don't fit in rack)
- I'm ok with a colored sound. Prefer musicality and realism over "accuracy" or "neutrality"
- Needs an absolute minimum of 150W based on how loud I listen
- 15/20A or something I can plug into a regular wall outlet

My Current List of options
- Luxman M900u (current top of list)
- Ayre VX-R Twenty
- Pass Labs XA160.8 (doesn't meet all of my guidance)
- Boulder 2160 (a little above budget)
- Audio Research 160S (doesn't meet all of my guidance)

My Current Setup
- AMG Viella Turbo Turntable w/ Koetsu Onyx Platinum Cartridge
- Boulder 508 Phono Stage
- Mytek Manhattan II DAC (next upgrade after the amp - maybe a dCS Bartok?)
- Audio Research Reference 6 line stage
- McIntosh MC452 power amplifier
- B&W 802D3 speakers
- AudioQuest and Nordost cabling or a Symposium Osiris rack

What I listen to: Anything from the 60s on vinyl, some things from the 70s on vinyl. A lot of large orchestral and jazz, also a fair amount of pop, from any decade, on vinyl and digital. Thanks for reading my long post! I'll keep this thread updated with amps I hear. Lots of great shops in the area. My two favorites are The Analog Room in Campbell and Music Lovers Audio in Oakland and SF.
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gmercer
193 posts
 
I am not sure the price of the FM Acoustics FM 411-MKIII, but if it is within your range I would get that and be done with it. It is 160 wpc.

Alternatively, based on your specs I would get the Soulution 511 Stereo Amp, at 150 wpc and $32,000 (I'm certain you could haggle w/ a dealer and get it down to $30k).

Either of the two above would be, I imagine, leaps and bounds above many of the others you mention (McIntosh, ARC, Pass, Luxman, even D'ag, which I found to be abundantly boring at each of three separate shows now).

There is a used VAC Statement 450S (225 wpc) currently up on Audiogon (I have no affiliation with it) that would also fit your bill rather well, if you do want to consider one of the few Tube amps that would meet your criteria. Another would be the VTL S-400 Series II.

Shy of one of the above, I'd stick with Mc!
gmercer
193 posts
 
For what it's worth, I agree with ishkabibil above -- I would upgrade your speakers before your amps.
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mayoradamwest OP
429 posts
 
Ishkabibil said he was mistaken. I’m not changing my speakers. I love them. 
mustbethemusic
17 posts
 
You might want to consider a Wells Audio Innamorata Signature it will meet all your guidelines particularly regarding musicality and realism. It's more than competitive with amps at the top of your range. Jeff Wells is a local guy in Campbell if you want to support local talent. I might be able to arrange a listen if interested. 

https://www.dagogo.com/wells-audio-innamorata-signature-stereo-amplifier-review/

soundsrealaudio's avatar
soundsrealaudio
756 posts
 
I had the Bricasti M28's with a pair of Wilson Beseech ACT Evolutions and they sounded very liquid and very natural with very  deep but not exaggerated. Wonderful sound 200 watts. Life time warranty and made in the USA..
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