2. amps-preamps
  3. 1163269941

TWO CHANNEL AMP DECISION FINALLY MADE

I've made numerous post over the last year looking for two channel amp recommendations and received many thoughtful and detailed responses. Thanks so much to those of you who took time to help, I really appreciate it.

I sold my trusty Outlaw Model-755 multi-channel amp and bought the highly recommended Odyssey Stratos. However, I didn't realize it had a 19" face plate and wouldn't fit into my entertainment center, so I had to sale it.

I hooked it up to make sure it worked properly before putting up for sale, and I wanted to see if it lived up to it's reputation. It does. Sweet, articulate amp that just gets out of the way of the music. A lot has been written about these amps and I can see why. I know of no other amp in it's price range that can best it.

Regardless, it wouldn't fit so I started looking again. From the many recommendations I received, the Belles, McCormack, Odyssey, and Bat seemed to be the front runners in affordable amplification.

The Belles and Odyssey are the only one's I've actually heard. I've always loved the Belles sound, but it was out of my price range. But, as luck would have it, right after I sold the Odyssey I found a great deal on a one year old unit and if everything goes right I'll have it in my system by next Friday; cant wait.

I now have the Naim CD5i source, Arcam AVP-700 (direct mode) pre, Belles 350A Reference (replaced Outlaw) and Usher CP-6381's (replaced Energy Veritas 2.3i).

I think my weakest link now is probably the Arcam. What do you guys think? Once I get my Veritas sold, or find a good trade, I'm probably going to look at a stand alone pre-amp with HT pass through.

Since you guys guided me so well with the amp; do you have any pre-amp recommendations? Unit must be black, no wider than 18" and be remote controlled. $1500 used would be the very top end of my budget, but hope to find something a bit cheaper.

Thanks again for your assistance.
jack_dotson

Showing 3 responses by jack_dotson

jack_dotson OP
210 posts
 
Thanks for the responses so far. Tboooe, I think the Ushers are special. I don't want to give them too much of a review until I've had some more time with them, but right now I couldn't be happier.

I can't wait to see how they sound with the Belles. :-)
jack_dotson OP
210 posts
 
Yep, you guys are right. I will put the Belles on my short list. However, I'm curious if thier soloist pre-amp wouldn't fit my needs. I only need one set of inputs for my CDP and the HT by-pass because my Arcam will take care of everything else.

Still haven't sold my Veritas' so I will have a while to ponder.
jack_dotson OP
210 posts
 
Lkdog, I certainly like the way tubes sound and would consider a tube pre-amp. However, tubes are a bit of a hassle IMO and do have their draw backs.

The Belles 21A that some have recommended is a tube pre-amp and I imagine a very good one. But I really doubt I'll go with tubes. I cant find much on the Belles Soloist, but the features fit my requirements and I bet it's a good match with the 350A.

Note that the new Belles 28A is solid state.

BTW, for those of you buying used Belles eqipment, they do not offer a transferable warranty. I checked with them and they said no can do, only original owner. Bummer!!
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