2. amps-preamps
  3. 162052-34747

suggestion for a SS class AB amp that sounds like a class A ... if such a thing exists

Looking for an amplifier below 2K for my Altec 620A (99 db efficiency). My actual amp is a Sugden A25B, which has 34 watts/chanel in class AB. Although quite musical, it lacks transparency and details. Of course, the best amplifier would be tube or class A but I'm trying to avoid these because of the heat and the electricity bill (my amp is on all day long). My short list include :

  • Audio by Van Alstine Set-120
  • Ayre AX 7e (used)
  • Sugden Mystro (class AB)
  • Benchmark AHB2 (used)

NOTE : please, no class D since I'm not familiar with it (and pretty skeptic too).
128x128alaindexe
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
The Benchmark will be by far and away the least class A-sounding, so delete immediately from your list.

But are you looking for an integrated or a power amp?

Alongside the Ayre integrated, you could look at the Belles Aria.
erik_squires
15,937 posts
 
Big fan of Ayre.  It's got a unique sound, like it sucks noise out of the room. :)

I love them, but because it's so unique you should listen, and in particular, listen with your speakers.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,878 posts
 
Ayre does a video-cast now. Pints with Ayre.
helomech
1,530 posts
 
I have the Benchmark. Its behavior is dependent on what you connect upstream. The closest you can get to a “straight wire with gain.” 

I run mine with a Schiit Freya Plus which, in passive mode, measures nearly as well as Benchmark’s LA4 preamp. If you want the buttery-smooth class A sound from it you merely need pair it with a class-A preamp.
soix
8,897 posts
 
The Unison Research Unico Primo is a little above your price target but is worth a look as it has a lot of what you’re looking for and you might find one used.  The Primo has tubes only in the input stage, and the amp section is biased to emulate a Class-A type sound.  There was a Stereophile review a few years ago that describes its sonic attributes nicely.  Just another potential option, and best of luck in your search. 
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