2. amps-preamps
  3. 161775-153237

Amplifier suggestions please

Hi - I'm reworking a 2 channel system, had some very basic components and now trying to step up a bit.  DAC is currently a Schiit Yggy, I'm on the waiting list for a Freya+ which means I'll be running balanced connections.  Speakers are Philharmonic Audio 3's.  I was using a pair of Emotiva XPA-1L monoblocks (differential/balanced) but want to upgrade.  I could stay in the Schiit catalog and go with a pair of Vidar's but although there are no real bad reviews I feel like they don't quite get raved about like the Yggy does (and the Freya+ to some extent).  I'd like to stay around $2K, definitely under $3K and I prefer new (I've had my fill with trying used).  I know its asking a lot to find a pair of balanced monoblocks in this range so I'm not opposed to a stereo amp (XLR inputs).  I could also be talked into canceling my Freya+ order and switching to a preamp from the amp builder if there is better synergy in that pairing.  I've looked an Van Alstine and Odyssey, what else should I be looking at?

Thanks!
128x128jumper75
gestalt's avatar
gestalt
190 posts
 
Have you considered the Gold Note PA-10? Class A/B design with GaN transistors. Available as a stereo amplifier or switchable to monoblocks (and the monos are within your budget) that output tons of power. Compact, Italian style in your choice of black, silver, or gold (champagne) finishes.

Here's a review on darko.audio. Here's a review in Positive Feedback.

Cheers,
Colin

Heads up that I'm a Gold Note dealer.
jumper75's avatar
jumper75 OP
6 posts
 
@ yyzsantabarbara Thanks for your additional info, much appreciated.  The AHB2 seems to be quite a unique animal.  I'm looking at how it differs from a more traditional AB amp in that price range, such as the Rotel RB-1590 suggested above that I'm really liking.  The AHB2 is very lightweight (SMPS vs large transformer as discussed above), lower on rated power, and I'm wondering about the adjustable gain - obviously low gain setting is ideal but is that intended more for the Benchmark DAC's or would its low gain setting work well with my system.   

It seems like I need to wrap my head a little more around the AHB2 much like I would going with a Purifi amp.  The RB-1590 (and the A21+ / AT6002) I don't really have questions or doubts from a design standpoint.  

Thanks for everybody's suggestions so far, they've been great.  I feel my answer is in this thread somewhere - so much to consider!
rmdtexas
12 posts
 
Hi,

have you considered PS Audio M700 monoblocks. they are within your range  and you could lower the cost with a trade in of your current amps.  Plus you get a 30 day trial.

your speakers were designed by Dennis Murphy, who designed the crossovers on my Salk Song3 BeATs which pair wonderfully with the M700s.   

Plus the Phil 3s are require some power as they are rated at  85 dB (db/2.83v/1M) and are essentially a 4ohm load.  The M700s  are rated  at 350w/700w @ 8/4 ohm.  
yyzsantabarbara
4,811 posts
 
@jumper75  The Benchmark web site has a menu section called APPLICATION NOTES. You will find all the technical details there.

As I mentioned previously the 30 day trial of the AHB2 is a no lose proposition.
chorus
976 posts
 
My 2 second analysis of your issues: Forget balanced and mono blocks.
Buy the best Integrated you can afford and find some speakers that you love. Maybe Philharmonic Audio are the best thing since sliced bread .
Do you live anywhere near a HiFi store?  Best of luck!
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