2. amps-preamps
  3. 170065-139155

Solid state amp to go with tube preamp; used ok; budget: $3k max

I may have posed a similar question like this a while back, but I'm curious to get any updated thinking from folks, older or newer.

Situation: I have a Quicksilver Line Stage preamp and 60w monoblocks. I'm happy with them. I'd like to have a solid state amp to swap in for the monoblocks from time to time (weather, variety).

Typical desiderata in the amp are, as you'd expect, great grip on bass and pacing, smooth highs, good presence in mids, as wide and deep a soundstage as possible.

I tried Atoll 120wpc integrated (bypassing the preamp), Van Alstine SET 400, and my old Adcom 535L. None did the above to my satisfaction --problem mainly with mid, treble and with soundstage depth.

I've heard that stepping up the quality could bring something to the table, and to look out for Hegel, Ayre, Pass. Open to any topology. My speakers are 87 db, 8 ohm, and are driven just fine by 60w tube or solid state.

Specific recommendations for brands and models are welcome. I'm willing to buy, try, and re-sell if there's a good chance I'll want to keep it.

I'm going to be watching for things on used sites. Again, for this I'm setting an upper limit of $3k but am hopeful I could do fine with much less.
128x128hilde45
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
4,842 posts
 
@elliot -- thanks for the Vintage options. Not confident about vintage but you’re opening my eyes.

Someone locally posted a Coda at $5300. Too much for me to pay but I wonder how Coda ranks...and, more importantly, whether it would ever appear used at $3k or lower.

The key -- key! -- is that this thing be a league above... my Adcom, the Van Alstine, the Atoll. I need, perhaps, to overshoot the mark to make sure I don't land back where I've been. 
Post removed 
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
4,842 posts
 
@tvad Would this count? https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649774010-pass-labs-int-30a-integrated-class-a-amplifier/

As I research past sales, I see this Int 30 doesn't typically sell lower than $3k whereas the 30.5 (amp only) typically goes around $2400 or so. Question is: is the amp section the same in both.
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649783884-hegel-h90/ <-- right in colorado, integrated, but you will hear what the hegel sound is, and can resell at that price in a jiffy

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649747636-ayre-ax-7e-evolution-integrated-amp/ <-- same idea as above

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649780498-yba-2-alpha-hcdt-stereo-amplifier/ <-- very sweet pure power amp, soundstage champ

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649778517-mccormack-dna-1-a-legendary-amplifier/ <-- worth a try, could easily resell if doesn't float your boat, or if it does, send to smc steve can make it sound even sweeter
Post removed 
More to discover