2. amps-preamps
  3. 1228262008

The best amp for $2k tube, solid state or hybrid

I want to purchase another amp. I've had GAS Ampzilla's, Melos MAT-180, Karan Acoustic KA-i180, a kit tube amp using dynaco st-70 transformers and UCD class D monos.

I am thinking Butler TBD 2250, Mark Levinson 27.5, Quicksilver V4, Rouge Audio M150, Llano Designs Trinity, Pass Labs X250.

I listen to 70's head/rock (ELP, Genesis, Pink Floyd) and some Jazz. I have a Audio Mirror tubed preamp (model PP1) an NAD T-585 cd/sacd player, Maplenoll Cleo II turntable, ProAc One SC clones and Gemme Audio Tantos.

I want used and to stay under $2500.00 total. I want more of the HIFI sound then the audiophile sound. Sterile is not good for me. Bass must be excellant (Pass X250) and mids should be smooth, but maybe a bit forward. Detail is preferred too, but sound stage and instrument placement is a must. I want to feel the snare drum and hear the fade of the cymbal as well as make out the lowest notes of a pipe organ.

Maybe I am asking too much for my price? Please help with any amp recommendation you've experienced. I am leaning toward the Butler and Pass amps.
stereo
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,534 posts
 
I have owned the Bultler and the Belles. The Belles Reference 350 is a much better amp. For solid state and $2000 the Belles Ref 350 is hard to beat. The real question now is tubes or SS.

The V4's are very good and might cost closer to $2800.

The Bulter amp is very good, but the Belles Ref 350 is BIGGER sounding,has better bass to be sure and smooth highs that soar higher then the Bulter. The Bulter is smooth and does nothing poorly. I found it a little, well , boring.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
The BAT VK500 w/BAT PACK will let you listen to more of your classic rock CD collection I believe. There's not a harsh bone in it's body. Gobs of power. I got a whole lot of "they are here" using it with my tube preamp Sony CDP, and VR4 JR speakers. Being a touch to the warm side of neutral with great tuneful bass and bass impact, very good extension up top without grain or gloss, and strong midrange.... use with or without adapters! I did both. Works great with a variety of loudspeakers. Two power cords however, as it's a true dual mono block amp on a single chassis..
stereo OP
147 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. I am going to use my NAD CD player as a transport when I finish my TDA-1541A/S2 DAC. I am a big DIYer as well. I think allot of people have underestimated the NAD T-585, because it is a NAD.

I may be underestimating the Belles. Not sure about it's midrange clarity. I may also be underestimating tube amps on their lack of bass slam.

The BAT VK500 sounds interesting too. That sounds like what I am looking for. I don't know what a BAT PACK is. I'll need to do some reading.

No responses on the Llano. This amp seemed like the best deal going. That Trinity 300 was at the top of my list.
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blindjim
3,092 posts
 
A BAT PACK option is simple... it provides a greater power reserve. In other woreds, within reason of course, it will not run out of steam (headroom) with the majority of musical passages on the larger majority of speakers. the overwhelming majority of the VK500 SS amps were made with the BP option.

The reviews I've read on the Belles point them towards being solidly more a neutral sounding amp. there's nothing right or wrong about either choice, warm or neutral... it comes down to what you, and your system needs are presently.

If currently your deal is a mite hot up top, or thin elsewhere, warmth might be in order. if things however are really full and fleshed out, neutrality seems the ticket. IMO. If bass is key for you or you're a bass junkie I doubt you'll get what you seek going with tube amps without adding a nice sub.

I know the vk500 has plenty of bass, and the reviews on the Belles indicate they do as well... some models more than others.

Both companies have outstanding customer service and build quality.

having a tube pre will give you some latitude too in attaining the sound you seek if an SS amp is added.
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