Amp help for Paradigm ref 100 before I go insane

Are you buying new or on AudiogoN? If new, take your speakers to the store and demo each amp. I wish I had.

I also have the 100's. I don't know about the B&K and the Rotel but make sure that you have at least a good 200 watts of solid state. They need power to really sing.

I agree with Tentrek. I own a pair of 100's and for the first 2 years I didn't know what I was missing. As soon as I upgraded my amp and fed these babies the current they thrist for they actually gave me goosebumps.

In the case of the Paradigm 100's more power is better!

Also agree on the 200 wpc.

Both of your choices churn out 200 watts and that really is what the 100's need. The Rotel is built like a brick sh*t house and is high current -- I would go with that, but try to listen to each before deciding. Most dealers will allow you to try them at home

You might also want to look at a used Bryston ST or new SST (Stereophile class A)-- I'm not sure what any of them run price-wise so the Bryston's may not be in the ballpark.