2. amps-preamps
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amp upgrade

Hello all. This is my first post! My system is as follows (mixed Home Theater and Two in Channel in one):

Arcam BDP 100 (cd analog out to preamp)
Rogue 99 Magnum with custom HT Bypass
Rotel 1056 Home Theater Receiver
Rotel 1070 amp
B&W CM4s
MIT AVT3 speaker cables
all kimber timbre interconnects

*I listen to mostly Jazz, some folk

My question is i am looking to upgrade my amp...I am only willing to buy used (cost). I am strongly considering McIntosh (e.g. MC 2105) and Bryston (e.g. 3b). My question is also will both of these examples (which are both 25 years old) be noticably better than my rotel which is probably about 8 years old. Then what other amps should I be considering? Thanks so much for your insight!
scifidelity
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
These 2 amps are likely to sound quite different from everything i have read and know about them...i have heard equipment from both a long time ago...in the vintage of what you have above.

Yes, i suspect both will be a step up over the Rotel which is very good and amply powerful...just not as refined as the Mc, i suspect...nor quite as transparent as the Bryston. I would suggest Forte 4 amp, Krell FPB series, or even KSA but watch the maintenance, you could get 2 CJ MV60SEs and monoblock...wow that would be a stunning set. depends on your budget.

just my two cents...good luck and pls keep us posted.
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,769 posts
 
You would still be using the tube preamp into the amplifier, so I am not sure how much of a difference you would hear by changing out the power amp.

Is there something about the overall sound of your current system that you are looking to change?

I ask that question, because I would be tempted to add a dedicated CD player. I think that you would change the sound more that way.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Never heard the 1070 but I have owned the Bryston 3B and a Rotel RB981. From that experience I do not think the 3B will be a step up.
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