Requesting opinions about 4 specific amplifiers


Greetings Audiogon community,

I am requesting your input about four specific amplifiers in a particular price range and how they may, or may not, pair well with my Dynaudio Confidence 20 stand mount speakers.

My room is 20' x 16' and does have wall absorption treatment. I do not listen at high levels, typically in the 75 to mid 85 db territory. 

I currently own a Luxman L-509X integrated amplifier, which is probably the best integrated amp I have owned to date. However I am wondering if there is a better amp match for my Dynaudio Confidence 20 speakers, and so am considering moving to separates. My budget for the amp alone is in the preowned $4K to $5K range.

Here are amps I am asking for your input about ;

-Simaudio Moon 860A V1 (Dynaudio dealers seem to endorse Simaudio)

-Pass Labs X150.8

-PS Audio BHK Signature 250 stereo (PS Audio has dropped the price on new amps in their closeout sale)

-Parasound JC 5

I realize there are many, many, amp manufacturers, and that of course if I reach a bit higher I could consider Ayre, or Aesthetix, or Coda, all of which interest me, but seem to stay outside of my budget. 

I wish I could side-by-side compare or demo all of these amps, but unfortunately it is not possible. I am looking to your experience to help in any way possible.

Thank you!

 

jpipes

Look for demo or 1 - 2 year old amps.  You will bring those more expensive models into your budget.   The "new car smell" is not worth paying 60% - 100% more than used.  IMHO.  

In my opinion the luxman power amplifier section pairs well with the Dynaudio Confidence 20.

If it were me, I'd invest in a tube preamp for more SQ impact.

Again, just my opinion.

 

For me, Parasound power amp didn't pair well with Dynaudio.

Simaudio is a fantastic choice but way pricier.

You will find more JC5 on the used markets than the other ones, so you could add a few other, niche brands to your list?

This really depends on what improvements and sound characteristics you’re looking for.  Without that critical info we’re just shooting in the dark here. 

Be aware the Pass amps -- even the Class AB ones -- run warm. The X150.8 is specified as emitting 370W at idle. That is heat going into your room. Tough if you're in a warm climate.