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Another 'Which Amp' Question

Looking for recommendations for an amp of 100-200WPC to replace my current setup.

Present system:
Dahlquist DQ10’s (recapped, mirrored)
Mcintosh C28 Preamp
SAE A202 Power amp

Budget is somewhat limited, I was hoping to keep it at $1500 or less if possible for something along the lines of a Bryston (4b), Krell (KST100), Mac (2205), Threshold or other reasonably ’high end’ amp. Perhaps some day in the future I might trade up to a pair of Logan CLS II’s (or other...) in which case the amp would be powering those, but that’s a long way off for now.

I used to have a Mac 2150 before I owned these speakers, and what it did to my friend’s set of Paradigms was amazing. I can only guess that there would be a dramatic improvement over the present SAE amp which is just ’alright’... it drives the speakers well enough but lacks soundstage. Looking for the next step up.

Thanks in advance for your input.
parabolic

Showing 5 responses by parabolic

parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Looks like I'm narrowing it down to only a handful of choices based on what's available in my area since I'm just not comfortable having delicate equipment shipped.  Did that once and it was a disaster.

Of these, which would you choose?
MC2105
MC2125
MC2150
Krell KST100
Bryston 4B or 4BST


parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Fair enough.

Actually, a couple other amps popped up on the radar, one of which is a Parasound Halo.  There's also the 4BST, though it's a 3-digit date code which tells me it's well out of warranty, which gives me a moment of pause.

I'm taking a huge leap buying an amp 'sight unseen'.  My hope is to improve the performance of the DQ10's beyond what they're doing with the old SAE amp.  My old MC2150 did wonders to the imaging and presence of a friend's Paradigm speakers, so I can only hope a better quality amp would offer similar improvements.

Still hoping for some other viewpoints.  Thanks!

parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Ok, down to:

Mac (one of three)
4B (ST or SST)
Parasound Halo A21

For those who recommended replacing the C28, please share your thoughts on why, and what you'd suggest in its place.

Thanks to all!
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
If ever I get that pair of CLSII's I've been wanting, the extra power would be helpful.  Besides, the DQ10's are pretty demanding, also.

Trying to economize as much as possible while making the best pick.  I think it's down to the Bryston or Halo, if I can find the right deal.
parabolic OP
106 posts
 
Howdy, folks.  Just wanted to chime in and let y'all know I pulled the trigger on a very good condition 4BST Pro last night.  Should be here by Monday.  Wish me luck!  Next will be replacing the C28... I'll start another post on that subject shortly.

Thanks for everyone's input!
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