Counterpoint SA 220,Comments anybody?


I'm looking at this amp used for around $800.00. I will have it upgraded to the premium pkg. that Micheal offers. But after this upgrade I will have about $4000.00 in this old amp that I would never get that kind of money back out of it if I don't like it . I've tried Llano,Pass Labs, BC2's,and none of these were to my liking.So far the best two amps I've heard (tube) is a VAC or (solid state) Bel Canto Evo. I'm hoping that the Sa 220 will have the benefits of both.Your input will be most helpful, Thanks Phile.
philefreak
Phile, Stop the endless upgrading, invest in a pair of Lamms, and be done with it all. You do still own the Merlins, don't you?
I have owned an SA220 and loved it as well. There are prior threads in regards to Counterpoint to view as well. 2 points agaisnt Counterpoint always come up, 1. reliability issues ( ive owned many many pieces of their gear and currently have their flagship preamp Sa11/SA9 , and have not had a problem of mention, this includes owning the Sa4 OTL monos where OTL's have inherent problems to begin with. No problems. 2. The alternative of ARC gear. Ive owned an ARC d70mk2, and their m300 monos, and just didnt find their sound what I would call "musical", I found them dry and clinical. I have seen Mr elliots web site and his theory on the upgrade vs purchase new, and agree with him. He is a sound engineer and has been for many years, the only missing link would be parts quality which you obtain from his upgrades. However $4000?? that is rather steep.
Dkuipers, I have got the Talon Khorus now. I agree with Justlisten concerning the ARC gear.I've just about convinced myself to stay with my VAC PA100/100 or maybe a VTL amp? Thanks again everybody,Phile
I recently had my SA 220 upgraded to the NP220 and find it very pleasing. I only went to the first stage of the upgrade but added the new binding posts and XLR inputs. Michael thru in the IEC power cord socket. This upgrade cost me around 1500.00 and was well worth it. I would recommend going with the better tube option for a few more bucks.
Philefreak: Justlisten is talking about totally different equipment then I mentioned. The VT100 MKIII is far superior to anything he mentioned.