2. amps-preamps
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Best amp for 5k used? SS or Tube

Hi I am looking for a new amp for around 5k used. You can view my current system here: http://cgim.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/vs_user.pl?vevol&1020195264

Any comments on any of the following amps would be helpful. Also, any new suggestions or advice would be welcome as well. I think an amp with at least 150 watts in 8 ohms is ideal for solid state. As for tube I don’t think it makes difference as long as it can go up to 105 db.


My main choices are:

Edge NL 10 – the best choice I think

LAMM M1.1 monos

Gamut 250 monos

A Rowland amp … not sure which one

BAT VK – 1000

PASS X-250 (sounds the same as the 350 on my speakers)

Bel Canto EVO Monos

Tube amps are possible too as my speakers are about 94 db efficient. But SS is preferable because I don’t want to deal with the tube hassle. Comments are welcome. Thanks in advance for all who help.
lordgorian
tweak1
3,563 posts
 
Plinius & Electrocompinet, GamuT 200. I have owned several Plinius' and am considering the new 8200 MkII $2995 (NEW). I have heard EC at various shows over the years- they always sound good.
paullindemann
15 posts
 
After reviewing your choices and the follow up posts, I would stick to your guns - especially your preference to the Edge, Gamut and Lamm amps. Do consider Kieth Herron's mono block amps - they are dynamic and musical.

I would not be overly concerned with the SS vs tube reliability issue. The tube hassle is every two to three years and the trade off may be significant to your ears.
tennispro
11 posts
 
I have not heard any of the amps mentioned but own a Sim Audio Titan which is what I am told basically a 5 channel w-5. I have been very impressed with this amp and I am curious why it has not been listed as a possible consideration?
lordgorian OP
133 posts
 
Turns out that the sim audio stuff is really really good... but i think after a long phone call with mike at talon audio that im going to go with the bel canto mono blocks. The best supposetly is a rowland 8tihc but it just costs too much for what is supposed to be a very slight difference. Anyways i think im buying the bel cantos tonight ... but they are easily sellable and i will continue to look for possibly better amps. Thanks for all the help so far and i will continue to carefully research this subject.
rcrump
427 posts
 
I just finished up some monos from Parasound and you might want to give them a listen before you buy used....These retail for 6K/pr and are the best we can do with a very powerful amp (400w and 130a current), but more importantly in your case they have S/N of over 120dB.....10yr warranty.....These are known as the JC-1 and will be available the end of the month....
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