I have owned a Hafler 9500 Transnova for the last 8 years or more. These amps were designed by Jim Strickland based on technology originally designed for Acoustat planar speakers. I have owned both NAD and Adcom amps over the years and feel the Hafler is a far better amp. The soundstage is huge. The amp can be a bit lean. I use a C-J tube preamp and find the pair to be very enjoable. I believe there is one on A-Gon for $595. They are rated at 250 wpc and can be bridged if you need more.
Brute power cheap?? Adcom Vs. Rotel vs. NAD
I my never ending neurosis about what to reccomend to my buddy (you guys know I am even worse about my own rig) who has Maggie 3.6's.Yes Yes Bryston,Sim,Bel Canto they all seem appetising but he has a limtied budget.Rotel 1090 would be good with 380 watts but used prices are too high at $1500.So two NAD 218THX's bridged to give what is it 700 wats (1100?) or go with Adcom GFA 5802 at 300 watts.Impression is that (without bridging) the NAD has more bass but a thicker sound.My tendency is towards an Adcom 300 should do it, amp remains balanced (NAD when bridged becomes un-balanced)and i think the Adcom has a warmer character.Thoughts gentleman?