2. amps-preamps
  3. 170065-139155

Solid state amp to go with tube preamp; used ok; budget: $3k max

I may have posed a similar question like this a while back, but I'm curious to get any updated thinking from folks, older or newer.

Situation: I have a Quicksilver Line Stage preamp and 60w monoblocks. I'm happy with them. I'd like to have a solid state amp to swap in for the monoblocks from time to time (weather, variety).

Typical desiderata in the amp are, as you'd expect, great grip on bass and pacing, smooth highs, good presence in mids, as wide and deep a soundstage as possible.

I tried Atoll 120wpc integrated (bypassing the preamp), Van Alstine SET 400, and my old Adcom 535L. None did the above to my satisfaction --problem mainly with mid, treble and with soundstage depth.

I've heard that stepping up the quality could bring something to the table, and to look out for Hegel, Ayre, Pass. Open to any topology. My speakers are 87 db, 8 ohm, and are driven just fine by 60w tube or solid state.

Specific recommendations for brands and models are welcome. I'm willing to buy, try, and re-sell if there's a good chance I'll want to keep it.

I'm going to be watching for things on used sites. Again, for this I'm setting an upper limit of $3k but am hopeful I could do fine with much less.
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Showing 2 responses by twoleftears

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
If you're buying new, then it would be hard to get better value for money than from the Belles Aria stereo amp (2k) or the monoblocks (3k the pair).  I own the monos; they run cool and together take up less space than many stereo amps.

I glanced over at USaudiomart.  Offerings from BAT, T+A, Pass, and others.  Here on the 'gon, you're got Goldmund, Simaudio, Coda.  Perhaps too many options.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
The other trade-off you're looking at here is new vs. used, and I think it should factor more into the discussion.  Otherwise you're not comparing apples with apples.  Do you want the peace of mind that comes with a new unit (and, likely, the ability to return it if you don't like it), or do you want to squeeze every last dollar of performance out of your budget while at the same time being willing to deal with a possible malfunction, which probably won't happen for years but which just could happen tomorrow?
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