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
richopp
760 posts
 
I am going to sell it in a while, so not currently available, but my Hafler 500 has been running my system for 45+ years with an Audio Research pre-amp (newer one).  I am going to be bi-amping my Maggies using the Audio Research EC-21 that was designed for them, so I will keep the Hafler for the bottom end for a while and use an Audio Research (used) amp on the top.

I had the Hafler checked recently.  It measures well within spec and only needed a bias adjustment, which I think a previous shop (AUDIO ADVISORS--STAY AWAY AT ALL COSTS) did the mess-up.

Anyway, a high-quality SS amp is not my first choice...I will use all tubes when I have the cash, but the Hafler at 46-years-old in my system is just fine, thank-you.

Cheers!
blackbag20
494 posts
 
Hilde ... please check out Klauss at Odyssey Audio, Indianapolis

Especially the Stratos:

https://odysseyaudio.com/stratos-stereo-amplifier/
mitchagain
461 posts
 
There is a CODA S - 12.5 for $2495 on Audiogon right now. Seller has a 100% - 363 rating. Over 600 views & 10 watchers' so, I'm not sure why it has lasted this long. Maybe it's due to no the lack of a Paypal payment option?
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
5,072 posts
 
Thanks, all -- Hafler, Stratos, Coda. Good to add to the list, investigate, too.

Anyone compare the Stratos with Pass, Ayre, or other smooth customers? Hard to imagine a $1500 amp kicking butt at 1/3 the MSRP, but who knows? These smaller makers can surprise you. 

I will admit that with the new KT 150s in my QS monos, there’s no problem with the low end, at all. But I’d just like something which presents a bit differently and which adds a certain rhythmic "snap" which I heard with Van Alstine’s 125watt SET 400 but with a better midrange and high. Those neg’s on the SET400 were deal killers, and I ate the shipping to get my money back. (No disrespect to AVA lovers, this was just my experience.)


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