You said it right, Perfectimage, the STR-55 is a fine amplifier and for what it typically sell for now on the used market (circa US$400), it's a positive steal. I had to get the grounding fixed and a loose captive power cord replaced on mine, but these are trivial issues. Smooth yet detailed, excellent bass, plus unbelievable power for the 50 wpc rating. Beautiful hardwood case, but yes, your audio friends won't be impressed because it's not as big as a TV and only weighs 10 kgs.
I also have the Meitner MTR-101 monoblocs and, if you can afford the circa US$1K used price, they're more of the same, plus massive (35 amps) current delivery.
In general, Ed Meitner components offer superb sound. It seems, though, Meitner, who now designs SACD recording gear, was not as good a salesman as he is an audio designer. But that means you and I get great sound for the money.
I'm sure you can get better amplifier sound than these late 1980s, early 1990s Meitner components, but at 3 to 5 times the price. I prefer to spend those extra dollars on improving my sources and speakers.
P.S.: if you do get an Meitner amp, John Wright, who still services and upgrades them, recommends to replace the 3-prong with a 2-prong power cord. I did on both mine and even with my crummy AC supply, they've the lowest noise floor in an amp I've ever heard.
Highly, highly recommended. See also my review of the MTR-101s on AudioReview.com. Except for the higher current delivery, everything I say there also applies to the STR-55, which I happily use in my second system.
Good luck and happy listening.
Joel
I also have the Meitner MTR-101 monoblocs and, if you can afford the circa US$1K used price, they're more of the same, plus massive (35 amps) current delivery.
In general, Ed Meitner components offer superb sound. It seems, though, Meitner, who now designs SACD recording gear, was not as good a salesman as he is an audio designer. But that means you and I get great sound for the money.
I'm sure you can get better amplifier sound than these late 1980s, early 1990s Meitner components, but at 3 to 5 times the price. I prefer to spend those extra dollars on improving my sources and speakers.
P.S.: if you do get an Meitner amp, John Wright, who still services and upgrades them, recommends to replace the 3-prong with a 2-prong power cord. I did on both mine and even with my crummy AC supply, they've the lowest noise floor in an amp I've ever heard.
Highly, highly recommended. See also my review of the MTR-101s on AudioReview.com. Except for the higher current delivery, everything I say there also applies to the STR-55, which I happily use in my second system.
Good luck and happy listening.
Joel