First Watt F3 or Red Wine Audio 30.2

Agree with Jaybo on more watts for rock. Odysee makes some nice amps which should be great for rock. Might want to look into McCormick too. Many others to choose from as well but those are two that come to mind.

some ideas....all are superb and somewhat powerful (not sure what pre you're using). (tubes)music reference. quicksilver, dynaco, rogue, moscode(it gets pricey) mac (even more pricey)......(ss) mccormack dna, ayre, bel canto......I've heard the devore with naim ss as well, and it was awfully good.

Why are you evaluating these amps? There are so many great name brand amps..these guys may be out of business in this economy at any time.

Unless you know something you're not sharing, this is a bit of a reckless statement toward two small companies trying to make a go of it. And, I think we've learned that a big "brand name" means squat, i.e. see Lehman, Merrill Lynch, AIG, GM, Chrysler, etc.

>>07-27-09: Stringreen
Why are you evaluating these amps? There are so many great name brand amps these guys may be out of business in this economy at any time.<<

Earth to Stringbean:

First Watt is Nelson Pass.

LOL

I'm evaluating these amps because of the outstanding reviews they have both had. Because they are small companies putting pride and effort in, and taking on the big dogs.
Plus, I never said rock is all I listen to. I love jazz too. I love hearing a saxophone like it's right in the room with me, but I also want to hear the groove of a bass line, and the snap of percussion. I don't listen to a lot of vocals, but I'm not some solid state slam monster. That's why I thought an amp with 20-30 watts would be plenty of juice for my devores (90db) to give me a little taste of SS bass power without the overwhelming SS authority, slam, and all that other junk that makes me feel like I'm not listening to music anymore.