Boulder 866—Why Did You Sell?

@helomech , I hope you are well. I see this trend with many pieces of audio gear, as it never seems to stop. Audiophilia is a disease (not necessarily a bad thing), and I understand it, completely. However, I do feel there are too many listeners (stating this as a retired, "true" audio consultant) that the merry-go-round will always continue. Folks looking to "hear that magical nirvana", from their recordings, in their listening spaces, thinking it will be like live, unamplified music. This illusion is a fun thing to strive for, but it is un-realistic for most, ime. I will get off my high horse now, because many people do not like my opinions on this matter, based on my experiences, when it comes to the truth of many things I have to say. This is your thread, about the Boulder amp. So, my apologies, and my best to you, always, MrD.

The Boulder 866 is a great SS integrated.  I owned one for 3 years and totally enjoyed it.  If you are into SS amplifiers the Boulder 866 is tough to beat at it's price point. 

However, I did sell my 866 about 6 months ago because I missed the sound of tubes in my system.   Having a tube amp for over 40 years I felt something was missing in my enjoyment with the Boulder.

I thought I would totally regret selling the 866 but my new tube integrated sounds glorious and cost half the price.    Buy a used 866 if you are concerned about keeping it .

Thanks for the replies guys. 

I’m pretty content with my Axxess integrated at the moment, but it’s like @mrdecibel said, it’s a “disease.” 

As a phile of many things including audio, I have never felt the need for a "wellness check" unless it also happens to be a bank check.