2. amps-preamps
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B&K vs Adcom – opinions please

I 'm looking to put together a 2-channel system with used mid-90s gear – either an Adcom GFA545 amp/GTP500II preamp-tuner or a B&K ST1400 amp (non-series II)/AVP1000 preamp-tuner. Each setup costs about the same. They will be used to drive a pair of bi-wired floorstanding 2-way speakers with 10” drivers and ribbon tweeters. I am looking for tight and full bass, good soundstage, and accurate highs for day in and day out listening. I listen to a range of music – jazz, rock, classical, vocals. I’d appreciate opinions on which amplification setup will give me better sound. Thanks for your help.
harpodog
abex
322 posts
 
I have the original ST-202 and had it modified shortly after buying it.The sound is totally different than the stock version whereas the forward biasing cleared out the grain or glazed sound that I could really live without.

I had listento the Adcom GFA-555's,I believe they were,and the thing that they exceled at was bass impact,but the mids and high's were to dry for my liking.

I also have an AV-2500II that I am using for 3 channels ,but am not as impressed with it's performance.That being said I will also have it modified and might try a vertical amp setup using modified B&K's.

jsawhitlock
302 posts
 
Here is a better way to go, pick up a Classe CA-100 amp for around $650 and Classe CP-35 for $400At about a $1000 this would be more musical than any Adcom or B&K could ever be! and for a few hundred more you could get a Classe CA200! check it outGood Luck
abex
322 posts
 
Do not know how it goes against a modified B&K.Adcom I would only buy if I needed a cheap amp for Bass driver's.

Was considering Classe,but I would rather get a Monarchy ClassA amp that is close in performance to Pass Labs amps.

JMO
sharp2451
7 posts
 
I have Apogee Centaur Major and for many years used them with Adcom GFA-565 monoblock in bi-wire configuration and 565 preamp. These combo worked very well and I was happy. Then I changed amps for Classe DR 10. The sound completely different - warmer bass extanded and sound much loader I had to decrease my volume for at list half of what I used before. I don't have yet good preamp at the moment but think that I will get Classe and it would improve the sound even better.
Evelyn
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