Solid state amplifier $2K Used or New

I second the Bryston suggestion. I personally dislike Classe (sounds to me like it's loaded with a bunch of butterflies), but lots of folks really like it. Over either of these though, try the older McCormack amps (get your hands on a revision A upgraded model), I like them over the newer McCormack models. Last, if any way you can spend more, look at the Simaudio Moon W-5.

stowne, buy my older electrocompaniet aw100 - i'm only asking $800! ;~)

of course, ewe can spend more on one of electrocompaniet's newer offerings - i presently am quite happy w/a pair of aw60ftt's werticially bi-amping my monitors; preamp is a melos tubed unit... electrocompaniet makes great amps, imo. while i've never heard the ayre, from what i've heard folks say about it, i'd hazard a guess that electrocompaniet is closer in sound to that, compared w/the other amps yuve mentioned

doug s.

I'm a Bryston owner also (4B-ST and 5B-ST), and think they're fine amps and an excellent value (very well build, and have a 20-year transferrable warranty) -- well worth putting on your short list. The other amp that has gotten very good reviews over the past 6 months is the Marsh Sound Design A400S. If I were in the market for a new amp today, it is one I would definitely audition. The other amsp I think you should audition are the Aragon 8008BB and the Rotel amp that retails for $1995 (can't think of the model number right now).

Go west young man! To California. (If you're already there, go north.) That's where they make the Pass/Volksamp Aleph 30. You will do yourself a disservice if you don't audition it. A very special amp right in your price range. Check this review (by a tube guy):http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0701/volksamp.htm

Please e-mail me if you have any questions.

Good luck.

Pass Labs. The Aleph series can be had for a steal (used) at less than half retail. If you can get ahold of an X-series, by all means give it a listen. I had a Bryston 4B ST & replaced it with a Pass Aleph 5. The Bryston is a very nice amp but I found it to be too dry; in other words too analytical. The Pass has a better soundstage, more detail, tighter bass & is definitely more musical. I also have a Meridian (506.24). Ultimately you have to pick a unit you will be happy with, so if possible audition with the rest of your gear. Have fun!