Amp question... Forte 4a or B&K ST140

R, I don't usually get involved in the opinion thing ... but ... if you can find a really nice Forte 4a ... I would go for it. Really nice resolution with a musical flow, sweet and smooth. Very , very balanced. A combination that many; if not most amps; can not put together. Power should be more than sufficent ...unless your trying to fill an auditorium or break windows. This amp is not hard to fit into a vast variety of systems, not the mismatched pain in the arse .. many amps can be. I think this amp is special, and in many ways; can show up many of the newer high priced rip-offs of the day. No, at present I don't own or have one for sale. I have owned more than one in the past. I think this a wonderful choice to fill your requirements. You should be able to pick one of these up reasonably, but do be particular and careful as to condition. I would advise if you can't see and hear the amp, at least talk to the seller by phone ... sometimes it will help you get a feel for the kind of person your dealing with and the kind of gear you might receive. Hope this helps. Best to you. Regards, Jim

Hi, guys -- Jim is right about the Forte 4A, it is a sweet little amp. I still own one, though it is not in use right now. However, I have to say that I prefer my Bryston 3B-ST to the Forte on both speakers I've tried: B&W 804 and Audio Concepts Sapphire III. The Bryston is, I think, somewhat smoother with greater depth of image, though perhaps less "dynamic" in the mid to low bass. The Bryston can be found for $8-900 on Audiogon. The newer Bryston 3B-SST is even better, but perhaps out of your price range. Can't comment on the B&K, I'm afraid. Actually, I think you'll enjoy any of the options you're considering, and all are good values used. Best, Rich

The older B&K ST 140's didn't much care for lower impedance loads.