2. amps-preamps
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Best amp for $2000-3000

I have finally saved enough money for a new system. I think I'm 99% decided on the Magnepan 3.6's as speakers. I am looking for recommendations on the following:

Amp - $2000-3000. I like the Odyssey Extreme Mono's or the Innersound ESL.....but I'm open to suggestions.

Preamp - I currently have an old Perreaux SM2 Preamp -- is this good enough?

CD - I currently have a Sony CDP-990 with an optical out. Should I just add a
DAC to this?

DAC - Looking at the Benchmark DAC-1 or a used Muse 2

Sub - narrowed it down to REL, Sunfire or Velodyne.

Speakers - Maggie 3.6's -- unless someone can twist my arm to listen to something else.

Any thoughts are welcome!!

Thanks,

Mike
mbovaird7ae3
cello
645 posts
 
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Try a used Mark Levinson 23.5 / tons of power-current - warmer sounding than most SS amps.
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They drive my quite inefficient Sonus Faber Extremas extremely well.
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You should be able to find a 23.5 in great condition for around $ 2,500.00 on audiogon. It was truly one of the two best amps that Levinson ever made (the 20.6 being the other). I would not consider any of the more moder Levinson amps (300 series and higher).

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c123666
871 posts
 
used Threshold S/500 for around 1500...250 watts, stasis topology, wonderful product assembly....

hard to beat when the Levinson 23 goes for another 800 or more...the threshold can probably be had cheaper

great amps that will drive just about anything
clifb
1 posts
 
I have the Odyssey Extreme Mono's and could not be happier. They even at loud volumns don't break a sweat and am using with Paul Speltz's Zero's which help alot.
s23chang
619 posts
 
2nd to Bryston 7BST monos
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