b&k or Bryston or McCormack?


Greetings. I am purchasing the new Martin Logan Ascent (replaces the SL3)loudspeakers.My quandry regards amplification. My budget is limited following the speaker purchase but I need amps. The B&K Reference 4420 is on closeout at my local retailer for $800 (225 watts @8 ohms x2). I was originally considering buying either the Bryston 4b-st, of the McCormack 225. However for less than the price of one of those amps, I can buy two B&Ks and bi-amp. My room is 27 ftx 18 ft, speakers are for music primarily, but will see some HT action. My musical tastes are varied but primarily alt/classic rock. I don't really have the luxury of an in-home audition, so I thought I would turn to the web for some wisdom. Thank you all in advance for your thoughts and consideration, I really appreciate your input.
mspencerod2cd0
They're all good or better than good amps. The Bryston has the advantage of state of the art design coupled with a 20 year warranty. McCormick also has a fine reputation. However, you mentioned the importance of cost. So, B&K should not be rejected simply because it is less expensive. I don't think that you'll be disappointed with any of them. Modern solid state equipment from quality manufacturers is reliable and durable. Relying on a subjective opinion or even a consensus subjective opinion may be reassuring but may be of no meaningful value to you. You should at least have the option of a satisfaction or return guarantee. I would have more concern over a seller who won't offer that option than whether or not you might prefer the VERY subtle differences of one amp over the others.
I have a pair of the SL3s and upgraded my McCormack DNA 0.5 to a used McCormack DNA 1/Rev B for about $1600. Within the confines of my room, system, budget, and ears this was the combination that worked for me. The latest Stereophile compares the 225 with a DNA 1/Rev A and puts it as basically a wash.
Out of the three mentioned, the McCormack is probably the best sounding. However, it does appear that you have a pretty good sized room with speakers that are not especially efficient. While the sound quality that they are capable of is quite reasonable, the added headroom and dynamics that they would offer in your specific situation along with the price might outweigh the better sonics of the Mac. Since your primarily a "rocker", this further reinforces my thoughts on this. You can't have enough power when your jamming. Just be careful with your speakers. Adding an electronic crossover sometime down the road would further enhance both sonics and system efficiency. Check out Marchand for something like that when the time comes. Sean >