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What Is Best Monoblocks For Around $10,000 Used?

I'm searching for an amplifier upgrade in my system. My system is presently made up of a Classe CA-401 amp, Krell HTS 7.1 pre-pro, Piega P10 loudspeakers and Mark Levinson No.39 CD player. (The P10's and ML 39 will eventually be upgraded.) I listen to 2-channel redbook CD's, but the system also does Home Theater with a Krell Theater Amp Standard handling the center channel, rear channel and Zone 2.

I'm searching for a pair of mono-blocks that sells in the used market for about $10,000 (plus or minus), to replace the Classe CA-401 stereo amp. I've considered the Krell 450Mcx, but heard it sounds dark. (I don't know what dark is.) I've considered the Musical Fidelity KW amps, but they only have single ended inputs. The Pass Labs X600 may not give me the bass I'd like to have.

Can anyone make any suggestions on a good, resolving pair of mono-blocks?

Thank you.
george3
semi
649 posts
 
I am sure a lot of people will disagree with Karmapolice. Calling Pass a Ford is like calling M-B or BMW an econobox.

But maybe Karmapolice is referring to Lamm's reliability when he uses Jaguar as an example.

I have heard both Lamm and Pass, I will not claim Lamm is in a different league.
george3 OP
24 posts
 
Karmapolice - - Which speakers are you using with your M2.2's ? WP7's ?
steve01s4
37 posts
 
I'll throw in my vote for Lamm... I do own the M2.1, and think any of their hybrid amps would be your best bet. I haven't heard the new X.5 pass amps, but I do feel the Lamms are a big step up from the older X series. With that said, if I hadn't heard the Lamms, I would probably own Pass. I certainly don't think they're bad amps.
karmapolice's avatar
karmapolice
258 posts
 
In the already expensive world of audiophile equipement, pass labs is a relative bargain and thus is something like a Ford Mustang (which is a bargain for a sports car). The lamm is no bargain and is a prestige name so kind of like a jaguar. I think semi must think that the ford mustang is an insulting reference and you think that then you really don't get how most people really like the mustang.
The lamm is like the jaguar as well for being refined and elegant and best with well produced music. The pass is better known for great bass for those that really want to rock. Most would not compare the mid range and vocals of the lamm with the pass (especially the newer lamms). No one would say the lamm bass is on par with the pass. Apples and Oranges. Brute force versus refinement. Its a matter of taste.

karmapolice's avatar
karmapolice
258 posts
 
george,

I am using the wp7's and it works great for everything but poorly produced cds.

michael
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