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help with 2 channel system build

Hi,
I'm new to the forum and it's been quite some time since I was amp shopping.I have a custom built pair of 2 way floorstanding speakers that are rated at 100 watts(power handling RMS),150 watts(power handling music)and 200 watts(power handling)peak.I would like to get some opinons/recommendations on a good mid-fi ss or tube amp(under $1000.00) to power these in a fairly large 24x20 room and I listen at high volume levels quite often.I listen mainly to classic rock and jazz.I have a crown straight line 2 pre-amp and JVC OLY-5F turntable.
I plan on adding a powered 10 or 12 inch sub at some point.
albumguy
noble100's avatar
noble100
2,419 posts
 
Albumguy,

The Vincent might be just what you're looking for. It's a German company but their products are built in China. The 331 amp is a hybrid, having 2 6n16 tubes incorporated into a basically solid state design. I've been curious about how this amp sounds, too. It puts out 150 watts and has an input impedance of 47,000 ohms which is a good match with your speakers and preamp. Audio Advisor sells it at $1,199 new, with a 2 year warranty, and may even give you an in home trial period, which means you can return it for a refund if you don't like it.
Emotiva amps may also be a good fit but, be aware, they're class D amps and will most likely sound different (better or worse is for you to decide) than the Vincent or used solid state amps. Sorry, can't comment on how these amps' sounds differ since I've only heard the Aragon. Good luck.
albumguy OP
2 posts
 
Thank you again for all your help Noble 100.I'm wondering how the Vincent would stack up against the Emotiva?(If I recall the Emotiva is 300 watts into 8 ohms?)I know watts are not everything and clean power is the ultimate goal(I think)and I have also heard the Emotiva does better in HT situations/environment.I suppose I could ask either or both companies for some kind of trial period buy/audition.Also heard good things about wyred for sound but they seem a bit out of my league at 1495.00 for the 250 watt model.
noble100's avatar
noble100
2,419 posts
 
From what I've read both Emotiva and Wyred4sound are both good amps and, I think you're right, both offer trial periods just like Vincent. Personally, I would opt for the Vincent because I'm attracted to the concept of a ss/tube hybrid even though I've never heard one. But you should be aware that the tubes are not typical plug in type tubes;the 2 tubes are hard wired to the amp which means no tube rollimg and you'll need to have the amp in for sevice when the tubes need to be replaced. Vincent claims the tube life is 5.000 hrs. You could also Google reviews for each amp and see if that helps with your decision. Good luck and let us know when you make your choice.
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