2. amps-preamps
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B&K vs ADA which to buy?

Hello all, I am looking at a couple of second hand amps, older, so I know they may need to be re-capped and serviced at some point. I am currently running a Pioneer Elite SC-37, 4 NHT Classic 4 towers, and a Classic 3C, with an M&k V1250 sub. This NHT set seems to be a bit much for the SC37 (it will be moving to pre/pro duties with the amp) I have a line on either a B&K av5000 series II or an ADA PTM-8150, both about exactly the same price. The ADA is an 8 channel so I could Bi-amp my fronts with it. Any thoughts on which way this group would lean with my rig? Pricing on these is right around $450 so I am guessing there won’t be much new out there in the same range. Thanks in advance for any wisdom and advice on this- Jay

jayk914
bdgregory
1,712 posts
 

I had a B&K 5125 which is the version after the 5000ii I believe. It was a wonderful sounding amp. I’m not familiar with the ADA.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,833 posts
 

I have had several ADA and B&K and both are good .  ADAs use fans, I had a PF201 and replaced the fan with a premium ball bearing one and it was better but still was noticeable from my listening position. Same with the 1260 I had.   

They can be bought dirt cheap because they are aimed at the custom install market.    They are good but over priced new .  You can buy a C J or McIntosh for what those things cost new so keep that in perspective.  

I have an AV 5000II iand its a good amp .   It is a little less forward 

jayk914 OP
4 posts
 

Hello all, 

just wanted to say thanks for all the advice, I ended up going with an ADA, but a

PT M-6150 instead, better shape, and shipping was an option so no need for a 6 hour round trip drive to Chicago, it arrives next week!! 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,833 posts
 

Enjoy.  Post your impressions 

mrdecibel
3,063 posts
 

Hope it works out, and yes, post your impressions. Enjoy !

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