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First foray into Class A amp -- recommendations

Thinking of checking out a Class A(or quasi) amp just to see if the sound is really better than a nice Class A/B amp. I want to buy a used amp and my budget is $2500-3000. My current class A/B amp is a McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe, rev. A.

I've been looking at a lot of amps here on A'gon and what I have come up with so far is the Krell KSA-200S, which, from what I read in reviews, operates largely in Class A into 8 ohm loads up to 200 wpc.

Considering that my McCormack is a pretty decent amp, do you expect that the Krell would offer a significant upgrade in my priority areas of bass slam and control, mid range transparency, and natural high frequencies? I also welcome any other suggestions or ideas. Thanks!
mtrot
phusis's avatar
phusis
1,219 posts
 
The Belles SA-30 - from what I can tell a little-known poweramp, but going by its sound quality a regular thoroughbred the should play second fiddle to none, and therefore deserves much more recognition.

The specified 30 watts belies its actual capabilities; I've been told it driving a pair of S.P. Technology Revelation's with ease, and through my moderately sensitive speakers (93dB's) sounds completely effortless even with high SPL (100dB+ peak) Blu-ray playback.

The Sound Stage review appears to be a rather accurate representation of its sonic virtues:

http://www.soundstage.com/equipment/belles_sa30.htm
pnmeyer
38 posts
 
I used to own the Pass Labs XA 30.5 (now own XA 60.5 monos). The XA 30.5, which is in your price range, is a special amp if your speakers are efficient enough. Pass has recommendations on its website as to minimum efficiency and I think it is accurate based on my experience. It is really a lot more than 30 watts. I owned the McCormack DNA 0.5 for about 10 years and I remember it fondly as one of my best audio purchases, but the Pass IMO is better.
mtrot OP
804 posts
 
@Pnmeyer,

Well, yes, the McCormack is pretty good. I just thought I'd check out a nice used big class A amp and see how much difference, if any, I can discern. If not, I can just sell it. I will never know unless I check it out for myself.
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
I don't own Accuphase (yet) but have heard them at several consecutive CES shows. All I can say is they're the real deal. They are dynamic, transparent, and sublime. It's pretty damn realistic overall. With a great build and parts quality as well. To be on the safe side, I would partner the Class A amps with efficient speakers, but I've heard of good results with less efficient speakers too.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Yes the XA-30.5 looks to be a nice one and he's asking for offers, $2500 should be a nice price if he accepts.

http://app.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-pass-labs-xa-30-5-class-a-power-amp-mint-condition-remaining-warranty-2014-08-20-amplifiers-30248-locust-grove-ga

Cheers George
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