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Help me with a major amp upgrade...

Hi,

I need your help and recommendations...

I am looking for a great 2 channel amp to power my speakers (Mezzo Utopia) which are part of 2 channel / HT setup. My current gear comprises of the Mezzo (accompanied by a Center Utopia and Elektra 905 as rears), Integra Research RDC7 as the processor, Electrocompaniet EMC1 and Marantz DV8400 as source and an Elektra Reference 5 channel amp. I am using ensemble cabling and PC’s as well.

I listen to a lot of 2 channel and while I rally like the setup (for both 2 channel and Movies/SACD/DVDA – all sound great) I am thinking about a major upgrade, starting with the Amp.

My budget is around $5K for the amp. What I want (guess everyone wants that…) is great clarity in the mids, big soundstage and good bass. I listen to Jazz, vocals, etc.

Any recommendation guys? I am not looking for tubes (although the Mezzo is very efficient) and would like to avoid huge amps (all of this sits in my living room…).

I am open to any suggestions and your help would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks,

Raanan
raananlerner
bhouser
112 posts
 
1st- understand that your results will be massively affected by the amp's SYNERGY with your speakers.

Having said that, I will offer another recommendation for Sim Audio, ESPECIALLY the W-5 LE, of which there is a 10/10-condition used one for sale on the 'goN right now in your price range.

Also, since you are already familiar with the EMC-1 player, the Electrocompaniet AW220 monoblocks should definitely be something to consider. A nice used pair of these can be found for about half of your budget.

I have both of these models in my combo 2-channel/HT system right now, and listen to music that is very similar to what you describe. I feel they are both terrific products that get nowhere near the kudos that they deserve.

... But, YMMV...
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usblues
1,217 posts
 
Ayre V5x comes to mind,dynamic,and transparent and more...Bob
boratri
1 posts
 
Before you buy anything I would audition a wonderful Aussie amp, Redgum. I have a 120i which has been upgraded to a larger power supply and it is the most wonderfully musical amp you could find, easily as good as the more esoteric brands like Krell etc but at a much lower cost.
I suggest you visit redgum's website and take a look.
pataburd's avatar
pataburd
31 posts
 
Look at what Kora has to offer. You can find integrateds and separates on the Audiogon at great prices. The Koras are tubed, and sound wonderful from top to bottom.
bryanhod
211 posts
 
Please read the reviews on the Rowland M201. They are mono amps but very small. I love mine and listen to similar music. Best part, you can get them used for about $3200. I am telling you these amps are just fantastic. Great resale value as well.
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