2. amps-preamps
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Need recommendation for power amp under $250

I know it's a small budget round' these parts.

I'm looking for a power amp that is extremely natural and clean. I don't need much power as I am driving pretty efficient (90db) speakers, usually at modest listening levels.

I have a fairly good grasp on integrated amps, but power amps seem to have quite a few names I know nothing about.

So, I'm looking for something used under $250... sort of a 'best bang for my buck' thing.

Thanks.
djembeplay
elevick
2,638 posts
 
I've got a nicely modded Yamaha M-40 for $185 + shipping? It is switchable 15 watts class A or 135 watts A/B. Simple button on the front does it all. Has dual volume controls and speaker outputs for 2 pair of speakers (my mods eliminated the third pair of speakers).
Email me for pics,
Emery
emfoods@yhaoo.com
Post removed 
djembeplay OP
179 posts
 
Thanks for the recommendations.

Just to make sure I cover my bases, how do Carver, B&K, Adcom, Rotel, and NAD stack up? Is there a clearly higher quality make, or are they all 'vanilla'? It looks like I could pick up any one of those for under $200 used.
schipo
1,268 posts
 
If you can locate one in excellent working order then I would highly recommend the Amber series 70 amp. They are very well built,can be with a flick of a switch turned into mono and go for less than 200.00.
ghstudio
141 posts
 
I would add ATI and drop carver from your list. That's the ATI 1502 (2x125W). Most of the B&K's are also excellent.

Just because you play softly doesn't mean you don't need power. More speakers are ruined by folks using underpowered amplifiers which distort easily....and that's what ruins the speakers. I suggest that you need at least 75W continuous per channel and you would be well advised to buy an amp with 100 or more watts, even if you only play at low levels. Your sound will be cleaner and you will not run the risk of blowing your speakers.
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