2. amps-preamps
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Integrated for Green Mountain - Classe, Bel Canto

Opinions please! - I am looking for an integrated amp (used) for my Green Mountain Speakers, these are 4 ohm and pretty efficient - currently using an Arcam AVR-300. Price range is 1000 to 1400, used Amps I am considering:

Classe CAP-150
Bel Canto S300i
Arcam FMJ A32

I do need pre-outs for subwoofer and a remote but other than that no bells and whistles, just looking for excellent sound. By the way, my source is a Monarchy DAC24 tube/SS DAC and Cambridge Audio DVD player for video. No TT.

Please don't provide opinion if you are selling one of these amps!

thanks

drew.
drewh1
drewh1 OP
115 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback, I will look into the Eico.

I am using the Europa's but am hoping to find a pair of Callistos. Slowly moving up the chain!
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
I owned the Classe CAP-151 for about two years and replaced it with a Bel Canto eVo2i. The BC is way better IMO. Smoother sound, wonderful features and flawless operation. Every so often I get the upgrade itch and have tried a few others in my system (modded PS Audio Trio C-100 and BC S-300 to name two) but they have all lost to the eVo2i. I'm not sure how much I need to spend to make a change.
mmike84
309 posts
 
An Ayre Ax-7e would be perfect. Used they go a tad higher but it would be worth it.
garyralph
53 posts
 
If you are interested in looking into an Eico HF-81, understand that these are vintage amps, almost 50 years old, and must be restored by a reliable technician. They often show up on Audiogon for $800-900 restored. I love mine, but they can be a bit finicky. There's lots of info available online. I would recommend Googling Peter Breuninger's Stereophile article about the HF-81.
drewh1 OP
115 posts
 
The Ayre seemed like the ideal amp but it has no pre-outs at all. That is a big problem as I run a sub with my GMA's.
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