I plan on spending no more than $6k for power amp (tube or SS), but would like to hear from others what amp they’d get. I’ve done plenty of research, but honestly, I’m burn’t out and now would like to hear from others.
Classe and McIntosh are classic pairings with B&W, I don't think you can go wrong with either one. I do think you are on the right track, adding more power to your system. I've owned a lot of McIntosh but not the MC452 so I can't say exactly how that would be, I can only add that for the same dollars you are looking at spending (or even less), you can buy a pair of MC501's (that's me recommending stuff I own). The great thing about the McIntosh is that you won't lose any money on resale if you try it and don't like it. The Classe will hold it's value too if you get it at a rock bottom price. I have only heard Simaudio gear with Dynaudio speakers and can tell you it was impressive.
Michaela, Thank you for asking! I'm just looking for some advice. Right now I have SIMs W-5 190 watts. I love it but want more. I'm torn between the Classe CAM-400, Simaudio W-8, and right now the Mcintosh MC452. I'm leaning towards the MC452, but again I'm glad you asked. The problem? The Classe, they say runs very hot but sonically, sounds beautiful. The Simaudio? I'm just wondering if the wattage would be a hinderance in getting the best sound out of my B&M 802's. The MC452, though my research is relatively new, sounds like it has the same characteristics as the SIMS, warm and rich, but with more muscle.
@roddyboy - Are you looking for people to just throw out the names of the amps they currently own or really like, or are you looking for some advice as to which amp is maybe going to work in your room. If it's the latter, more information is needed.
I snagged a mint condition McIntosh MC452 which was something like four months old when I found it on Audiogon. I really enjoy this amp, which is driving a pair of Focal speakers with that beryllium tweeter, which I found sounds too "sharp" with other amps, not the McIntosh. You can probably find a mint-condition MC452 for your price range. If you do, please have a friend help with the unboxing and positioning, as this beast is heavy!
It is hard to give advise without knowing more about your system's needs How efficient are your speakers, What other components are in your current setup. Do you require a balanced design. Power amps can run the gamut from warm to bright in sound with small power output to very large Matching components for synergy from the Audiogon community will be far more helpful Dennis
I own an ATI Signature 6007, and two Mark Levinson No. 536’s. Based on how closely the ATI sounds almost as good as the 536, I’d buy a 2 channel ATI Signature 6002. The ATI is a crazy value.
The McIntosh MC452 has an excellent review. At 450wpc this amp is a beast and the sound quality really speaks for itself. Not to mention the resale value of this amp well McIntosh in general is excellent too. Highly recommend it.
Conrad Johnson MF2550SE amp, paired with a Conrad Johnson ET3SE preamp. Spearit sound is going out of business in the next week or so and they still have a MF2550SE for under $5,000. It lists for $8,000 or so, so the deal is already built in (depreciation). It has upgraded capacitors and resistors and sounds great. I would buy that one, but I already own one. And, there's no maintenance on the amp. Truly plug and play. Pairing with a Conrad Johnson single tube preamp (either the ET3SE or the now discontinued ET5 ) creates great sound, beautiful soundstage and works for classical, rock, rap and acoustic. You would need to invest $200 beyond the cost of the preamp for a better tube, but it's really a nice combination.
For those who care, these units are made right here in the USA in Virginia. The owner is usually in the store/factory and he's a delight to chat with.
These units are bulletproof, sound great, well priced and made here. Not too many companies like that out there. I like to support the ones that are.
Nobody can recommend an amp by itself without knowing your sonic preferences and the rest of your chain from source to speakers. Ignore any and all advice from those who do. And, if you want good advice, then provide this info.
Bridged Benchmark AHB2. Alternatively I might decide to save a lot of money and get a cheaper pro audio SS amp because I don't think one would hear the difference.
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