Handling Heavy Amps

I am pretty strong, and I recently carried my CODA #16 up the stairs to the office. That thing weighs about 110 lbs and I was thinking this is way too dangerous. It is not just the weight but how you need to carry the gear.

BTW - if the CODA 5.5 (or is it 6.5) is similar to the #16 as described in the other CODA thread then it would be a good match for the Harbeth. However, for my ears that match may not be perfect. I like the brighter AHB2 more with warm speakers like Harbeths.

I paired my Yamaha NS5000 with CODA #16 and got amazing results, say 95/100. That 5% was a little bit too much warmth with the slightly warmish NS5000 and the same warmish #16.

I now have the #16 in the office with my $1000 Magnepan LRS+. The LRS+ is a tiny bit bright. The LRS+ and the #16 pairing is incredible, 100/100. A better match for my ears than the much better NS5000 speaker and the CODA #16.

Another amp that you may like (built by CODA) is the Sanders Magtech. I got mine from Sanders for $4k used with 1-year warranty. The Sanders weighs about 45 lls and is sonically in-between the AHB2 and the CODA #16. It is very powerful amp, and I would bet great with Harbeth.

Another amp I am considering for my NS5000 is the SimAudio North Collection 761 or 861. The older Sim 860A that I heard was closer to the AHB2 than the #16 so that maybe a good match for me. The 761 is not too heavy.

If I buy from my dealer he’ll load it in my SUV. However when I get home it will be difficult to get it out and onto the garage floor where I can place it on my handcart. Then when I get it next to my rack I need to maneuver it out of the box and up onto the rack.

A scissor lift hydraulic table cart is your friend!

There is not an item of HiFi worthwhile having, if it comes with a risk to health, especially if a underlying health condition is known off. 

Speak to a medical professional about your concerns and options on weights you are able to  consider to get equivalent function from alternate devices. 

The answer will be very clear, select what is best for your looking after ones Skeletal Joints.

I myself with knee conditions have been very satisfied with my discoveries of lightweight alternative materials which are now being used in my Audio System. 

Thanks for all the responses. I really appreciate it and you’ve given me a lot to think about. 
 

once my new streamer and DAC arrive I will test out the AHB2 which is my current amp. Then decide my next step. 
 

That hydraulic lift is wild.