5 channel amp for Paradigm Studio 100's

I have to second Kgb's advice on the EAD PM500. I own one, and am very happy with it. I've owned ATI, Marantz mono-blocks 500 and 700, AudioSource Amp 3, and Sunfire solid state amps, and I like this the best of all those. I think it's a very tough thing to get a 5 channel amp under $1000 that pleases me for music listening, but the EAD seems to be pulling it off.

My 100v2's are pretty forgiving speakers and will do well, IMO, with many amps. I run my Paradigm 100v2 system with the Sunfire Cinema Grand and enjoy it for home theatre. It runs very cool so that could be an advantage in tight quarters or in a cabinet. While the Sunfire is very smooth and musical, I don't think it is quite detailed enough for me to use as an audio system, but it is very fine for cinema (find them used for about $1300-$1500). I've read very good reviews about the Outlaw amps which are very reasonably priced (New 755 at about $1300 -- outlawaudio.com). I've also owned Bryston ST amps which I believe would match very well with the Paradigms -- the 5B-ST runs around $1300 plus or minus used). The Brystons have plenty of detail and, I believe, PRaT, but can be a bit bright on some speakers (not the Paradigms though). The Brystons also carry a 20 year transferrable warranty.

The Sherbourns that Sufintanil recommend are available now in the classifieds for very reasonable prices (under $1000), but I cannot speak to their sound. Their build quality and approach seem very good though. Happy hunting!

All the amps named here are good choices. I'm partial to the Paradigm/Parasound combination but would suggest the 1205A (5x140) rather than the 855. $1199 list. The big Paradigms benefit from lots o' watts.

will