2. amps-preamps
  3. 1351638377

Modern amp that has warmth and sound of B&K?

I am currently quite happy with my used B&K st-140 (105 watt) mated with a Nova Pre and current model ZU Omen Defs. The sound I am getting is warm and "groovy" FLOABT. However, upon reading, I realize the life of this amp to where it needs upgraded (caps, etc) could be quite short due to its age. I thought of the musical designs elite upgrade for the B&K for about $600. But, I could also just enjoy it unit it's end and just go with a newer amp.

One make that intrigues me is Vincent hybrid. The silkiness of tubes sound appealing..but would love to keep the warm, deepness that my current B&K offers. It seems the vincent could be the best of both worlds. However, the B&K is total SS and offers the flavor of sound I like.

No matter what amp I look up (Passlabs, Modwright, Bryston, etc), there are people who think they are too bright or too dark. I realize much has to do with the other components as well.

I also hear that Klaus at Odyssey will bias an amp to your liking (Khartgos look nice)

Thoughts?
aberyclark

Showing 1 response by 4hannons

4hannons's avatar
4hannons
187 posts
 
I think you'd be surprised how long the ST140 will last. I recently had mine at a trusted shop here in Sacramento and was given good advice to leave it alone and enjoy. Two weeks later I got an itch and purchased a Parasound A23 while visiting a stereo shop in Eureka. The difference was a pleasant surprise; the A23 provides a nice smooth sound but has much better bass punch and better overall balance compared to the laid back sound of the ST140. I know there are many fans of the ST140 but I have no desire to put it back into my system because it can't compare. Even so, the ST140 is a great amp to try if you need to tame any brightness you might have in your system.

~Tom
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