Amps suggestions for ATC scm 40 mk2

Check the Nord Acoustics offerings; they have amplifiers based on NCore modules within your budget.

https://www.nordacoustics.co.uk/product-page/nord-one-se-nc500dm-mkii-dual-mono-stereo-amp

https://www.nordacoustics.co.uk/product-page/nord-one-se-up-nc500mb-mkii-mono-block-single

Or the W4S ST-1000 mkII based on ICE module if you prefer to buy American.

https://wyred4sound.com/products/power-amps/stereo/st-mkii-series

I tried Nords with my ATCs and quickly sold them. Not a good match. The ATCs are too revealing of the Nord’s shortcomings.

Stretch a bit for a pre-owned REGA OSIRIS integrated amp. It’s a high end classy powerhouse

Power output: 162Wpc into 8 ohms, 250Wpc into 4 ohms
Analog inputs/outputs: Four single-end stereo inputs (via RCA jacks), one stereo record input (via RCA jacks), one stereo record output (via RCA jacks), one fully balanced stereo input (via XLR jacks), one stereo direct amp input (home-theater bypass via RCA jacks)
Frequency response: 20Hz–26kHz, +0/-0.5dB; 10Hz (-1.7dB point), 75kHz (-3dB point)
THD + Noise: < 0.05% (bandwidth 22Hz–30kHz)
Dimensions: 17.1" x 4.8" x 13.8"
Weight: 56.4 lbs.


http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rega-isis-cd-player-osiris-integrated-amplifier-tas-213/
http://audiofi.net/2012/08/rega-osiris-punching-heavy/

ATC and Hegel can work very well together. But, you're correct, the H160 or the H190 integrated don't bring the SCM40's to life. But, the H360 integrated does. The H360 also has a sonic signature that for me definitely works better with ATC than the H160. The H20 power amp drives them very well too.

My ATC's (40's but the rare HTS style) sound fabulous driven by a pair of the Red Dragon Audio M100 mk. II Monoblocks. Loads of clean power. The ATC's can really deliver with those!