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Looking for an Amp Replacement

I am in need of advice and direction on replacing my ML 23.5 amp. While replacing the power caps a cap on the output board was damaged and is no longer available. The most viable right now option is to start looking for a replacement amp and to complete repair down the road or scrap it... (was purchased used maybe 10 years ago)

It is for a second system that is mainly used for background and light listening to streamed/internet radio and the occasional CD and playback from NAS storage using JRiver.

Currently have pulled my Perreaux 3150 out of retirement and have been using that with acceptable results. Looking at a used amp for better bang for the buck return in the 150-200wpc and a budget of 2-3k+/-

Rest of system comprises of

ARC ls28, PSA DSD, Magnum Dynalab 801, Shahinian Acoustics Obelisk, Sony XA5400es CD  

I liked the sound I was able to get from this set up with the ML, but have a bad experience with a 333 in main system a while back and as such I do not have a lot of faith in their newer gear.

While not expecting someone to have identical components, would like to hear from tube/ss combos people as I am using this in three systems and really like the overall sound.

128x128stevea1298
perkadin's avatar
perkadin
286 posts
 

For back ground music/lower volumes all of these amps will sound exactly the same.  Seriously, you will not be able to pick them apart blind with any statistically significant confidence.  The lowest cost suggestion is the one you should go with.  Personally I'd look for a Linn Classik which has a built in CD player and enough inputs to meet your needs.  The Classik goes for around $250-400 and if you sold the Sony CD player (1k) ARC Preamp (5k), PS DAC (500), and the Perreaux ($600) you'd have a net credit around $6500 give or take and a lot less clutter.

If you don't believe me pick up the Linn and do a blind A/B comparison with your current system using the Perreaux at the listening levels you intended.  Have non-audiophile frends and family weigh in if possible, as it may be difficult for you to set aside your expectation bias.  

bmontani
193 posts
 

Pick up a used BHK 250 used.  Excellent amp for around 3 t 3.5 k used.  

reme
8 posts
 

Take a look at the McIntosh MC2255 I currently have listed. It would be a great fit for what you are looking for.

emergingsoul
1,114 posts
 

If you like the amplifier I would fix it and maybe other potential vulnerabilities while the patient is on the table.

Matching other amplifiers may not workout. And your current amplifier may even perform lot better after a makeover.

If you like looking at it get it fixed.

Otherwise increase your budget to get something to ensure happiness..

Or buy a new dog

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 

I take pleasure in making you aware of a Amp Design called the Neurochrome 686.

I have been demo'd this design in all the available build guises prior to Covid Times and have been left thoroughly impressed.

I have also been demo'd this design in A/B comparisons to other well regarded Power Amp's.

The higher wattage (686) model was A/B compared to a variety of Amp's DIY/Commercial of which a Commercial Amp was a Soulution Power Amp'. The demo's were carried out on a £200ishK system and it was very difficult to suggest the Neurochrome was bettered by the Soulution, but definitely stood out for its qualities.

I have been demo'd the lower wattage (40W) Neurochrome in A/B comparisons against my own Amp's in my own system, as well as other Amp's in systems owned by others. The Neurochrome in this guise still stands out as a superb Amp', definitely hard to believe so much is available for the cost. In this guise it would be fair to suggest that ESL Speakers might be a bit too much for it, and are able to show a little more power would be beneficial. 

 

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