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Battle of three amps

Well, I've got my front end sorted (mainly vinyl), and I've decided that my Io Sig phono stage is going to get volume controls (hopefully at the end of this month) and a line input, so that's gonna be my preamp.

I already have my speakers - VMPS 626Rs - so now all I have to do is get the right power amp. My two present amps (Dyna ST-70 and Pass Aleph 3) though excellent don't have enough power for the 626Rs or enough bass tautness for my taste.

So I'm down to 3 power amps, and I'd like people's input who have heard them. I'm looking for amps that can control the 626Rs with ease, have tube-like midrange, and bass tautness. And be compatible with the Io's output impedance (300 ohms). Yes I want it all. A good deal of it will have been accomplished by my front end.

The three amps are:

1. Blue Circle BC-28
2. ASL Hurricanes (latest version with green PIO caps)
3. Mcintosh MC402

I'm not wedded to either tubes or SS...

Thanks in advance for your help - Patrick
patrickamory

Showing 2 responses by patrickamory

patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Thanks for the response, guys. Interesting on the Pass Calanctus - I'd considered the X series, but was turned off by talk of a certain leanness... I think the 626Rs' transparency while admirable can translate to a certain leanness in the right setting. How's the bass on the 150.5?

Jphii, what shortcomings did you hear with the Mac? And what was the system you heard it in?

The BC-28 probably wins on price here... but it's a pretty close call. Anyone else out there?

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Also Calanctus - do you have the FST on your 626Rs? Cap upgrade? I have neither - just curious. Using with the custom Sound Anchor stands with "bearded" fronts.

Patrick
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