Old Amps that can still Kick Butt


Not being a believer that time necessarily = progress, I would like to offer the following example of a sonic gem that has transcended time and can totally kick butt in a modern milieu:

The Robertson 4010. I got one of these about two years ago because it was in immaculate condition, the price was so low and I was inquisitive. I hooked it up and let it warm up for a couple of days. OMG this thing was in the super amp league: Transparency to die for, slam that you couldn‘t‘ believe for for a 50W amp.. Peter Moncrieffe wasn‘t wrong in his review of this amp: this thing is in the Sterreophile Class A component category hands down. Even after all these years.

What amps have you encountered that have defied time and can still kick butt today?


128x128pesky_wabbit
Vintage tube amps in which dried-out capacitors blow up. Now that’s one serious, memorable kick in the ass!

FWIW, I had one of those Robertsons back in the day, and thought it was okay but not great.  Replaced it with an Electrocompaniet Anniversary Signature with far better results.
Vintage tube amps in which dried-out capacitors blow up. Now that’s one serious, memorable kick in the ass!


yes we sure do need to define what ’kick ass’ means, and/or who or what kicks who’s ass... 😂😂😂😂
Krell FPB series
Van Alstine Omega 3 440HC
Musical Design D140I
Mac 7100
VSP Labs TransMos150 Gold
Creek 4340SE
BK Sonata Series Amp

This is such a great post a true trip down memory lane...
well if we are strolling down memory lane...

amber 70
forte 4a
bel 1001 
muse 100
bedini 25