Amp upgrade +or- 1,000

used McIntosh should definately be considered. I like the Blue Circle too although it can sound a little thin. Like-wise for Bryston. McIntoshes can be had for a good deal on ebay since there are many of them around (50 years you know...). I just love all of mine - the recent ones having the most imaging and 3D effects I have ever heard and superb controlled bass with a real goose-bump-inducing midrange. A little Classe would be nice too - there is CA100 on ebay right now. I used to own Krell but not anymore! Good luck

If you want something different, I would suggest an AMC CVT2100as. If you search on Audiogon, you will find it new for $775. The AMC is a hybrid design with a SS front end and tube output stage. Pure tube designs will sound a little better, but they will usually cost more. I have owned both tube and ss amps that cost over $2k new and the AMC is competitive sonically with them. The downsides to the AMC have nothing to do with its sound. It is not a popular brand so resale will be difficult. It is fan cooled and the fans are may be audible depending on where the amp is placed. Also, tube replacement is tricky, because setting the bias is not easy. AMC will replace the tubes for you and I have read that the turnaround time is quick. If you can live with these inconveniences, you will not find better sound for $800.

For that price you could be a McCormack DNA 0.5 Rev. A or maybe even a DNA 1.0 Rev. B.

I second the McCormack route. You can pick up a .5 delux and have a few dollars left to consider upgrades. The other option is a good used integrated. Read and talk to as many people as you can then treat yourself to a day of listening. Good luck.

Your Klipsch are very easy to drive,so you can end up with many amp. choices that will work well.The two that worked for me were..McCormack DNA.05 nice solid-state..Rogue Audio 88 all tube amp. 60 watts nice,plenty of power..Both amps. are under your budget..Oh yea I have Forte's!!

Good Luck!!!
Carleton