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
zm
119 posts
 
I have an Audio Analogue Puccini Settanta Rev 2.0 that compares very favorably to the class A amps I currently own (Line Magnetic, First Watt). It is by far the most euphonic solid state integrated I’ve had (others would say “colored”), extremely warm and rich in the midrange. Not the last word in transparency, of course.

A brand that flies under the radar here in the states, but a beautiful sounding amplifier IMO.   Hand made in Italy, first rate build quality.


decooney
1,908 posts
 
@zm
Which FirstWatt model are you comparing to?

Each of them have a different circuit topology and output transistor types, SE, PP, different impedances, and wattage power output. Interested if your AA Pucciini sounds more like a SIT-3, F6/F7, or J2, etc. Also dependent on what preamp you are using too. Thx.
zm
119 posts
 
@decooney I am comparing to an F2/J, which is an F2 modded by Nelson Pass to replace the Mosfets with power Jfets.  
I have an SIT-3 coming on Tuesday, after which I will be able to comment on any comparison there.

Preamp is LTA MicroZOTL MZ2. 
alaindexe's avatar
alaindexe OP
75 posts
 
@zm Thx... the Pucini was on my list for quite some time... but after reading reviews about it, I concluded that it was pretty similar to my Sugden...
b_limo's avatar
b_limo
2,273 posts
 
The BellesAria is 75watts, is really open sounding and has good grip on the bass.  Its a beefy 75 watts for sure.  It might be slightly rolled off on top but has a nice warm sound that is not fatiguing at all.  
It is lightweight and unassuming but is of great quality.

@hilde45, the inside of that atoll is top notch 👍
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