Amp Advice for Newbies


Lads...

I am new to this whole scene but totally addicted. Unfortunately I am on a rather fixed budget, I just bought a house, the kids need braces etc. I was wondering if any of you had any advice on amps for newbies. Here's my system...

iPod
Scout VPI turntable w\ 9" JWM tonearm
Sony 5 Disc changer with DSP (not sure of the model)
YS Audio\Audio Experience Concerto Plus Phono Stage
Woo Audio 2 tube pre amp
Sonetic Amplifier (185 wpc into 8 ohms)
Tannoy LGM 10" Dual Concentric Speakers

I am generally happy with the sound I am getting here but the weak link is the amplifier. The Sonetic line was essentially a DJ amp manufactured by QSC in the 80's. It's definitely old tech. I have had a friends very nice PS Audio amp hooked up to my system and the difference was night and day. I would really like to spend 1000-1500. I listen to everything, ok so maybe not everything but my tastes are pretty diverse.

Thanks in advance for your insight.
oldeenglish
Most of your system is quite nice.
There are a ton of amps out there that would match nicely with your pre and speakers.
You need to ask yourself a few questions:
1-do you listen loud?
2-are you a bass fanatic-very power hungry
3-do you want tubes or solid state?
4-do you like your music "warm" sounding or do you enjoy a ton of detail. Keep in mind that some amps will get tiring on your ears because of too much detail (my opinion).
If you look at today's posts alone, there are Brystons, B&K's, Conrad Johnson and many more in your range that may even blow away the borrowed PS Audio. If you want to splurge, the Pass Labs listed for $1800 is killer in my opinion.
Check out as many amps as you can, borrow what you can, then buy used on audiogon. Keep in mind that shipping can be quite costly. Also beware of 220volt vs 110v amps-I don't know which continent you are on???
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Your table and speakers should be very good,(I've never heard that model tannoy)But I've never heard of the amp.. If it is a "pro" use type amp then you should be able to easily best it, unless it is a big Crown.
Try Forte 1a or 4, Eagle 2a or 2c, Thresholds, and the aformentioned B&K, CJ, etc.