2. amps-preamps
  3. 1286118265

What amp/pre-amp would you buy for $12-15k?

My Krell 300KAV-iL died. It used to sit between a Rotel CD w/ XLR outputs and B&W 802 Nautilus loudspeakers. Also use a Denon ipod dock.

The Krell worked well for 9 years, but I want to upgrade-keeping the Rotel and B&W's. Budget is $12-15k for the amp/pre-amp and interconnects. I may add a DAC, music server, and turntable down the road.

I like the idea of a tubular system - at least for the pre-amp. I hate to "waste" the XLR capability, but will not eliminate a pre-amp just because it doesn't have it.

We listen to everything-blues, acoustic rock, opera, etc. The room is big and wide open, so the B&W's have a lot of space to fill with sound. I'm going to RMAF-anything I must see? Any other recommendations? Thanks!
smith_t_66

Showing 1 response by cajunpepe

cajunpepe
255 posts
 
You can do a McIntosh MC401 power amp at 400 watts per side and a c2300 tube pre new for about 15k retail. However you can usually find both here on agon for a good bit less. There is also a tube pre, the c220 for a little less money, and the MC252 power amp at 250 a side. I believe all have balanced connections. All are available here and would leave you enough money for a CD player.
BTW...the c2300 has a great mm/mc phono stage built in.
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