2. amps-preamps
  3. 124751-7565

Solid state amp to replace my Audio Research Ref 150 amp

I have owned an Audio Research Ref. 150 for 4 years, but with tube changes and the heat, I'd like to find a solid state amp that would mate well with my Baby Nola speakers, as well as be 100% reliable and have the great sound my AR amp has given me. The AR amp was originally recommended by the Nola designer, Carl Marschiotta. 

My listening tastes primarily range in jazz, classical, roots music, and Americana such as Jason Isbell. I do like to rock the house occasionally, but I greatly value the finesse I get from the AR 150, as well as the solid bass and dimensionally my amp provides in my system.

I don't want to replace my Audio Research preamp and phono preamp, so I am wishing for a solid state power amp that will fulfill my amplifier hopes, work with my other AR pieces an continue to provide me the pleasure my Audio Research amp has given me.

 I would like to pay less than $8k on AudiogoN.

Comments and suggestions are appreciated.

128x128shaq
johnto
1,035 posts
 

I also recommend Pass, I own a 250.8 and it's simply fantastic sounding.

I don't know how everyone gets off on the heat thing mine has been on playing for over 2 hrs and is barely warm to the touch . I have a 12 x 15 room and was kind of wishing it would heat it but no way.

See if you can do some listening to the suggested amp you might consider.

Good luck happy listening.

 

kennesawjet
203 posts
 

i had my mccormack dna 500, 500w amp recently redone by conrad johnson up for sale if your interested. the guy i brought it from, run it with ar preamps....let me know....

 

willywonka
287 posts
 

You people understand this original post was over 8 years old!

erik_squires
16,402 posts
 

The last time I heard AR and Parasound the two seemed very similar in sound quality.  I think it was with Wilsons at the time. 

I had Parasound, and ended up with Luxman for having a livelier midrange and glass smooth treble and extension.  However, if you want to keep everything as-is, I would suggest Parasound would be a good brand to listen to.

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