A friend of mine has a set of older Heresy's (mid 80s). Though the IIIs are somewhat better, they are very similar to the originals as I understand. We have driven his version to loudness levels beyond what was comfortable with an NAD 326BEE. That said I believe these speakers are best served by the the more classic tube sound (EL34 type). Regarding a balance between sound quality and budget, I don't believe these speakers command amplification beyond ~$2000 price point.
My friend has driven them with a current version of the Dynaco ST-70 and said they sounded wonderful (I was not present). However, we also plan on driving them with an original version of this amp I had recently refurbished. I will have to get back to everyone on this.
If I owned these speakers I would choose to drive them with a tube integrated. I would consider Jolida or Prima Luna 35wpc integrateds. If going separates and wanted SS drive, I would pair a SS amp with a tube pre. The Odyssey would be a good choice however supplies more power than needed. I don't consider this a problem however as long as one can use the pre at appropriate gain levels.
My friend has driven them with a current version of the Dynaco ST-70 and said they sounded wonderful (I was not present). However, we also plan on driving them with an original version of this amp I had recently refurbished. I will have to get back to everyone on this.
If I owned these speakers I would choose to drive them with a tube integrated. I would consider Jolida or Prima Luna 35wpc integrateds. If going separates and wanted SS drive, I would pair a SS amp with a tube pre. The Odyssey would be a good choice however supplies more power than needed. I don't consider this a problem however as long as one can use the pre at appropriate gain levels.