2. amps-preamps
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$1300 used amp to effortlessly drive VR4JR

Downsizing my system and I need to choose a used amp that will drive my Von Schweikert VR4JR with no strain in a 22 x 15 x 10 listening room, too sometimes loud levels. I'm on a tight budget, so buying on the used market and need to stay under $1300. Under consideration is:

Musical Fidelity A300 or 3.2
Blue Circle BC24
Channel Islands D100
Unison Unico
Plinius 8200 MKII

I am somewhat aware of all of these (all w/ thier strengths & weaknesses) Pretty certain that the CI & Plinius will drive the VR4JR but not my ist choice. The MuFi if powerful enough, are amp's that I won't regret. My 1st choices are the BC24 or the Unison but am concerned they will falter at higher volumes. At this price level I rather sacrifice some detail in favor of a laid back warmer sound.

Any experience with these or any other low priced amps when matched
with the jr's?
Any comments or suggestions appreciated!
Thanks!
ludimagis
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,370 posts
 
Personally I think the JR absolutely need some power to get going, otherwise they can just sound a little boring. One muscle amp that can be had fairly cheap is the Innersound ESL 300. I tried it with my pair and while I ended up liking the sound with a higher priced pair of Parasound JC-1s, the ESL 300 had the power the JRs needed.

My first choice on your list as is would be the Plinius, only because I know it to have pretty high power for an integrated.
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
I like Aragon, and you can get 400 watts for half your budget.
analogphil
44 posts
 
There are several listed here on Agon.
bigfish427
17 posts
 
I agree with Ejlif, and second the Plinius choice. Having been running Plinius gear for some time, they have the warm sound with the power you need, and in my estimation, still very detailed. Good luck...happy listening!
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