Thanks to everyone for the great advise and education. I particularly liked Hockey and Aballs' characterization of "warm & emotional" amps vs. "clean & clinical" amps.
....well, I chose an amp that no one mentioned.......
The Krell KAV-500. The decision was based on finding the right deal, plus what I think is a great match for my speakers. This Krell certainly fits more into the "clean and clinical" camp. As much as I love Classe amps, I feel that my "warm" Revel M20s are better matched with an amp like Krell or Bryston. If I were using speakers like B&K Nautilus than I would have certainly chosen a warmer amp like Classe, Proceed, or BAT. Bottom line, it seems best to power warmer/richer speakers with more clean, clinical amps and vice versa.
I am surprised that no one mentioned Krell. For some reason, Krell doesn't seem to get much respect anymore. Its almost like their powerful brand name cache has caused a backlash whereby everyone wants to own a more "boutique" product rather than the powerful beast that is Krell. Curious if folks feel that criticisms of Krell on this web site are valid or just irrational dislike for a hifi brand name that has become too ubiquitous in a hobbyist world that prides itself on individualism???
For what its worth, I was impressed with how many mentions EAD recieved. I never had the pleasure of seeing or hearing these amps, but will now be on the lookout for them.
....well, I chose an amp that no one mentioned.......
The Krell KAV-500. The decision was based on finding the right deal, plus what I think is a great match for my speakers. This Krell certainly fits more into the "clean and clinical" camp. As much as I love Classe amps, I feel that my "warm" Revel M20s are better matched with an amp like Krell or Bryston. If I were using speakers like B&K Nautilus than I would have certainly chosen a warmer amp like Classe, Proceed, or BAT. Bottom line, it seems best to power warmer/richer speakers with more clean, clinical amps and vice versa.
I am surprised that no one mentioned Krell. For some reason, Krell doesn't seem to get much respect anymore. Its almost like their powerful brand name cache has caused a backlash whereby everyone wants to own a more "boutique" product rather than the powerful beast that is Krell. Curious if folks feel that criticisms of Krell on this web site are valid or just irrational dislike for a hifi brand name that has become too ubiquitous in a hobbyist world that prides itself on individualism???
For what its worth, I was impressed with how many mentions EAD recieved. I never had the pleasure of seeing or hearing these amps, but will now be on the lookout for them.