Besides few other choices that have been already mentioned, I would like to throw -in just one more brand in this mix-up. My favorite amp (yes, I know - I am bias, on that matter) Consonance Cyber 800. It is a 78wpc El34 base monoblock design within reach of most audiophiles.
It is not the best amp out there.........but it is good enough for me. Right now, I have placed it in the hands of a person that will perform some mods on it to get the most out of it...........will see what will that bring to the table and how it will affect its performance .
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I would just like to add that as good as Cybers are there are not the last word in transparency and it may luck some body on string instruments. However It could be the limitation of my speakers. At this moment I am not a 100% sure. I am hoping that treating the input stage, some silver wiring and addressing few other areas where improvement is possible will answer my question.
It is not the best amp out there.........but it is good enough for me. Right now, I have placed it in the hands of a person that will perform some mods on it to get the most out of it...........will see what will that bring to the table and how it will affect its performance .
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I would just like to add that as good as Cybers are there are not the last word in transparency and it may luck some body on string instruments. However It could be the limitation of my speakers. At this moment I am not a 100% sure. I am hoping that treating the input stage, some silver wiring and addressing few other areas where improvement is possible will answer my question.