2. amps-preamps
  3. 1228262008

The best amp for $2k tube, solid state or hybrid

I want to purchase another amp. I've had GAS Ampzilla's, Melos MAT-180, Karan Acoustic KA-i180, a kit tube amp using dynaco st-70 transformers and UCD class D monos.

I am thinking Butler TBD 2250, Mark Levinson 27.5, Quicksilver V4, Rouge Audio M150, Llano Designs Trinity, Pass Labs X250.

I listen to 70's head/rock (ELP, Genesis, Pink Floyd) and some Jazz. I have a Audio Mirror tubed preamp (model PP1) an NAD T-585 cd/sacd player, Maplenoll Cleo II turntable, ProAc One SC clones and Gemme Audio Tantos.

I want used and to stay under $2500.00 total. I want more of the HIFI sound then the audiophile sound. Sterile is not good for me. Bass must be excellant (Pass X250) and mids should be smooth, but maybe a bit forward. Detail is preferred too, but sound stage and instrument placement is a must. I want to feel the snare drum and hear the fade of the cymbal as well as make out the lowest notes of a pipe organ.

Maybe I am asking too much for my price? Please help with any amp recommendation you've experienced. I am leaning toward the Butler and Pass amps.
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Showing 2 responses by mrtennis

mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
here is my suggestion:

create a list of all amplifiers within your price range and listen to as many as possible.

the opinion of others is not a predictor of your attitude towards a product.

get the facts and decide for yourself. listening to a component will educate you, while listening to an opinion without your own personal experience, will not.

if it's out there, listen to it. it's time consuming, but it reduces the rsk of making a mistake.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
the value of suggestions should be tested.

consider this thread. suggestions for an amplifier costing up to $2000 have been elicited.

consider two lists. the first contains the names and manufacturers of 10 amplifiers., based upon the advice of posters, while the second, is a list of amplifiers chosen arbitrarily.

it is my hypothesis that, without an audition, selecting 10 pairs of amplifiers, randommly from both lists, a buyer will not be better off chosing an amp from either list.

opinions are overrated. one can be just as happy without them. its fun to discuss, but opinions don't make music.
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