2. amps-preamps
  3. 1271886391

Amplifier progression and change

I have Harbeth SHL-5s with vintage Accuphase P-300/C-200 amps. It's a nice combination, but I'm thinking of updating the amplifier with a smaller newer integrated, but is it that easy? My question is this: will new amps from companies such as Blue Circle, Plinius, Luxman, LFD, Accuphase, etc. clearly blow away 35 year old Accuphase separates? Have enough advances been made that a new $2000 - $4000 integrated can best an old amp that was built nearly with a cost-no-object standard? Whether solid state or tube, what would one have to spend to get an amp that is head and shoulders above the P-300/C-200? Thanks!
jtnicolosi

Showing 1 response by rhljazz

rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
I'm guessing the Accuphase is a solid state amp, and if that's the case, a modern solid state amp will offer sonic advantages over what you have. A relatively inexpensive amp that I can recommend is the W4S ST500 with WBT outputs. They also make an integrated STI 500. If you are ennamored with Accuphase, check out some of their new models.
If it is a tube unit, you may not find a significant improvement.
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