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"Neutral/Clear Amp vs. Dark Amp"

It seems that of the many reviews I read about amps within my price range (under $5,000 new) they always end with some reference to a "dark" sound. That is exactly what I am NOT looking for. I'm looking for a clear, neutral sounding amp that won't add anything other that a clear representation of the music. I'm thinking maybe Classe, Ayre, Pass, Sim Audio? I'd like to hear other recommendations. I'd also like to stick with SS, as I have a deHavilland preamp and it mates well with SS amps. Speakers are Von Schweikert 4.5's and I use silver wire throughout. Listen to digital and analog, all types of music. That's the key. It has to sound like music, otherwise why bother? Currently using a McCormack DNA-1. It's a good amp, just looking for a significant upgrade. Another choice is to send the amp back to McCormack and have them do some significant upgrades.
tube540
mordante
511 posts
 
I have heard Ayre in multiple systems. Most of them sounded veiled or dark. Not that they are bad amps but they are certainly not the most neutral.
dalecrommie's avatar
dalecrommie
91 posts
 
I think you would be happy with a Musical Design 100 amp. Musical Design/Musical Concepts builds amps with several levels of upgradablity. All of the resources they put into their products goes into electrical components that actually create the sound. The 'box' is just a rectangular, basic black box.

I have the highest iteration, the MD hybrid Elite, which has a tubed output. The sound is a wonderfully smooth, musical and neutral to my ears. I find that all of your requirements could be met by this amp. The solid state version is 'only' $2000 new.
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,366 posts
 
Also consider the parasound JC 1 if you can deal with te size and heat. They were very good sounding with my Von schweikert vr 4 sr speakers.
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,366 posts
 
Also consider the parasound JC 1 if you can deal with te size and heat. They were very good sounding with my Von schweikert vr 4 sr speakers.
tube540 OP
13 posts
 
I've read a lot of good things about the JC 1's. They just take up too much real estate for me to consider, and the heat in the summer might be a bit much. Regarding Musical Concepts, many moons ago I had them modify my Adcom 555 to very good effect. Still was a bit harsh, but sounded better after their mod. Good to see they are still around. Anyone want to weigh in on a used Threshold amp, possibly with an update? I remember from memory that they could sound quite good.
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