At the low end of your price range seriously consider the Rogue Magnum 99. At the upper end the McIntosh C2200. I've used both with my 4BST and found them both very dynamic and clear - not at all mellow. The McIntosh is the better of the two; I wouldn't part with mine for anything else on the market.
Preamp with most dynamic contrast?
Which preamp in the $ 2000 to $ 5000 range offers the most dynamic contrast (both macro and micro)?
My current set up offers what I value most in spades (no listener fatigue, true timber and great imaging) but is somewhat mellow in dynamic contrasts, especially Micro. I think a change in preamps might do the trick. Current system: Vienna Accoustic Mahler speakers, Bryston 4BST amp, Electrocompaniet EC 4.7 preamp, Meridian 508.24 CD run balanced.
PS: I am tempted to try tubes this time...thanks in advance for your kind suggestions.
Bruno
My current set up offers what I value most in spades (no listener fatigue, true timber and great imaging) but is somewhat mellow in dynamic contrasts, especially Micro. I think a change in preamps might do the trick. Current system: Vienna Accoustic Mahler speakers, Bryston 4BST amp, Electrocompaniet EC 4.7 preamp, Meridian 508.24 CD run balanced.
PS: I am tempted to try tubes this time...thanks in advance for your kind suggestions.
Bruno