Help me pick an amp for under $5,000


So I finally have the scratch for an amp and I'm looking for some help. My system consists of a Sony SCD-1, Music Hall MMF-7 (new table in the works), Aesthetix Janus Preamp, and Totem Forests. I posted a thread a couple of days ago but only got one taker (I think I posted it too late at night, or it was too specific).

When I initially heard the aesthetix it was with a Bat VK-250SE and JM LAB 926BEs. I loved the BAT's sound (although find the look of it to be questionable, but I could get over that) but I'm wondering what else I should be looking at in this price range (slightly over is okay too) that would mate well with what I have, and with any possible speaker upgrades, since the Totem's aren't the last word for me (new listening room is 17x20 with high ceilings, so I worry about them dissapearing).

I'd like to stay with SS, and realistically think 150wpc into 8 ohms and above, just to cover myself incase my next speakers are power hungry. So what else would mate well? Parasound JC-1s have been mentioned, but can't get a ton of input on the match with the rest of the gear. Pass X250.5? Something from Simaudio? I feel a bit at a loss since I've not been able to hear the aesthetix with my speakers or other amps, so help is much needed.

FWIW I listen to everything, but concentrate on Jazz, folk/acoustic, Indie rock, soul. and classic rock, with some avante-garde classical thrown in.

Thanks a ton!
mimberman

Showing 1 response by jfrech

Looks bad on the BAT ??? Maybe you saw the silver and black version. Go all black then. They have the all black pic posted on www.balanced.com/products/amp/vk-250/black.html.

Used, you can also go with a BAT VK75SE in your price range. The BAT tube amps are autobiasing, so tubes are really plug and play. I know you're asking for more power than 75/side. But I doubt you'd be disapointed. The vk75se drives the heck out of my wilson wp 6.0's.

The VK250SE is a amazing SS amp. The 75SE might have better mids is the difference.

Good luck !