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SS Amp Choices

I presently have a First Watt F8 and was beginning the process of looking at a few Solid State Class AB amps that I could utilize in my system, giving me additional power and flexibility with future speaker choices - running Zu DW 6 Supremes at this time.   I would be pairing the amp with my Modwright LS 100.  Price wise the range for new/used would be $3 - 4K.  My research to date has uncovered the following possibilities -  NIB Van Alstine DVA Set 500, NIB Benchmark AHB2, and a lightly used Anthem P2. I have seen a few Pass 150.8 amp offerings but these are top of my range plus for used.   I realize there are many choices available and wanted to get some thoughts from this group.  Note I will likely keep my F8 as I am attached to it.  

norust
blackbag20
441 posts
 

OP some great choices here.  Please consider Odyssey Audio, Indianapolis, IN.

I've been running the Kismet amp for about a year ... I can't create a scenario where I will ever be rid of it.  Simply sublime, built well ... and within your budget.

 

jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,967 posts
 

Yes Pl

jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,967 posts
 

If your speaker can do Pass X25 this is my first choice. I heard the fiirst watt and x25 from my friend system, I prefer the x25. You can’t go wrong on Plinius and Krell.

hilroy48
125 posts
 

The Kinki studio EX-M1 is an amazing amp. Worth looking into, I had one for a short time, I should have kept it.

norust OP
62 posts
 

Thanks all for your responses and recommendations.  I will have time to review them over the holiday weekend.  One other potential amp that a friend had brought up that is in the $ range for a lightly used amp - McIntosh MC 152.  

@soix - I liked the recommendation on the McCormack but it was for local pickup.  The Plinius looks very clean and I bet sounds awesome.  I know how much heat my F8 puts out in a smaller audio closet and would be concerned with this in the space.  I will look into this factor a bit more.  

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