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2026 best deal in audiophile class D stereo amp?

My new super incredible speakers (canton reference 2.2 dc)require power!  Looking for something that will give them 300-500 watts into 8ohms of quality sound.  I’m a tube guy (SET amps) and hoping for something that’s worth it in the $1k to $2k range.  Lot of deals in the used heavy duty class a or or a/b but,  I’m getting old and it’s just as good and only weight 20lbs.... why not try it??  

this...?

https://classdaudio.com/product/prototype-matched-pair-gan-fet-balanced-mono-block-audio-amplifiers/

 

or this....?

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1619617725777365/?ref=search&referral_code=null&referral_story_type=post&tracking=browse_serp%3A8f7381e0-5d2d-455d-84c1-abd69cf3c076

 

 

argonsteele
lak's avatar
lak
4,817 posts
 

I can't emphasize enough that you need to check out this website and various selections at very reasonable prices. Personally, I would recommend the GaN FET Balanced Monoblocks however the single unit two channel units are good also. IMO for the price, one of the best sounding bang for the buck you can purchase.

https://classdaudio.com/shop-2/

 

argonsteele's avatar
argonsteele OP
27 posts
 

@lak yeah they are still the top of my list, I've been talking to them.  Leaning towards them because they are the local LA boys and price for power seems among the best deals.  And GaNfet is the latest and greatest, right?  Not sure yet if I will go monoblocks or just stereo.  

bluorion
523 posts
 

Check out the Bel Canto REF501s stereo amp (200 wpc at 8ohms, 400wpc at 4 ohms). Excellent amp, dead quiet and weighs 12 pounds. Price is $2495 but I got one under $2k as a demo unit online. Good luck!

kennyc
2,860 posts
 

I’m a tube guy (SET amps) ….. $1k to $2k range. 

If substituting for SET amps, sonics will have to be above the lowest cost Class D amps reaching for the level of Atma-Sphere Class D (established excellent tube Amp Designer, and gracious Agon contributor) or FirstWatt (amp designer legend Nelson Pass)- both above the OP’s budget.

So yes, there may be a satisfying Class D to replace SET, but at 1-2k budget it’s doubtful you’ll get there.

 

campoly's avatar
campoly
136 posts
 

@lardawg +1

The M700s make my Maggies sing. I’m delighted with the super quiet black background and tons of details. I can no longer chuck around 50# amps. The M700s are manageable weight wise and seem to be very well built. Around $2k used at The Music Room.

@gents, I know exactly what you mean.

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