2. amps-preamps
  3. 1271886391

Amplifier progression and change

I have Harbeth SHL-5s with vintage Accuphase P-300/C-200 amps. It's a nice combination, but I'm thinking of updating the amplifier with a smaller newer integrated, but is it that easy? My question is this: will new amps from companies such as Blue Circle, Plinius, Luxman, LFD, Accuphase, etc. clearly blow away 35 year old Accuphase separates? Have enough advances been made that a new $2000 - $4000 integrated can best an old amp that was built nearly with a cost-no-object standard? Whether solid state or tube, what would one have to spend to get an amp that is head and shoulders above the P-300/C-200? Thanks!
128x128jtnicolosi
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
I'm guessing the Accuphase is a solid state amp, and if that's the case, a modern solid state amp will offer sonic advantages over what you have. A relatively inexpensive amp that I can recommend is the W4S ST500 with WBT outputs. They also make an integrated STI 500. If you are ennamored with Accuphase, check out some of their new models.
If it is a tube unit, you may not find a significant improvement.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,741 posts
 
I don't want to burst your bubble but I owned those Accuphase amps over 35 years ago. At that time they were made by Kenwood and sold at circuit city type chains. They were nice but not state of the art. With the speakers you now have you should invest in better electronics; there are many out there in your price range.
jtnicolosi's avatar
jtnicolosi OP
72 posts
 
No bubbles to burst here. It will only help with my decisions. It's difficult to get out and audition amps out there, so research is my main source. Yours and any other input is very appreciated!
petek
34 posts
 

A few years ago I had a modest Unison Research Unico powering my Harbeth M30s (and before that my Spendor S3/5se). This made for some really sweet music without costing the earth.

After trying various ss separates I have reverted to an all tube integrated, the Graaf GM50, which drives my Verity's. This is by far the best integrated I have owned, and a keeper for me.

Anyway, there are lots of good choices for integrated amplifiers depending on your budget. You may wish to visit the Harbeth user group for suggestions (I think they also recommend Lavardin & Sudgen amps with Harbeths etc).

good luck!
clio09
3,360 posts
 
Perhaps one of the recent line of Luxman integrated amps like the L505u would be worth looking into.
More to discover