User Error Disaster

Fort Worth Audio is a repair shop that has fixed some VERY expensive components for me.

First, let me thank EVERYONE who has replied via email or on here. It's all valuable information. One of the main drags about the 21st is the place I used to haunt that could fix it, Hillcrest Hi Fidelity, is long gone. I saw someone mention Audio Electronics in Dallas. I haven't heard of it unless you mean Audio Concepts. I wasn't aware they did their own repair work.

dougthebiker....I've never heard of Ft. Worth Audio. I assume they have a phone number or website so I'll look them up.

I am aware a lot has changed since 1993, thanks. A few of those things are my age ( 56 ) and subsequent hearing loss from attending over 250 live concerts. I seriously doubt I could hear the sparkly phrases like "deep soundstage" and other phrases that everyone OOOO's and Ahhhh's over with my current hearing.

Another thing that's changed over that time is budget. I could walk out and spend 5 grand on a new amp right now but that's a needless waste which I explained above.

So, let me rephrase the question. Is there a $500-$700 new amp that would fit in there that I can walk into a store and buy or ( thanks for the two examples above ) a local repair shop that I will lug it over to close to me? Hillcrest used to do this stuff with no problem but they are long gone. I'm thinking  of checking out the local places for repair costs or if people know a new, better amp I can buy immediately, give me some names and models. And thanks everyone for your help ;)

You blew up your amp?  I think you did yourself a favor.  It's time to upgrade dude - hah!  You wouldn't wear shirts that old would you?  As for what to get, NAD, Schiit, PS Audio, Anthem, and a whole host of goodies are out there.  How about a DIY Nelson Pass Amp, the First Watt stuff, that'd is some cool stuff right there.  

Sugden A21SE will bring you into this century, best by miles your current setup (I’ve owned this vintage of BK) and leave behind any upcoming repair issues.  Things simply wear out with nearly 30 years of use.  Be happy for some much enjoyment from BK.

If that does not fit your pocketbook, its smaller brother is quite good.  Or, even a Rega integrated.  Best of luck.

Sorry, just noted your (expanded) response and see the $500-700 price range.  Rega integrated used will still get you there.  Yes, I would still leave the Sonata behind unless you must have the MC preamp section I seem to remember.