2. amps-preamps
  3. 1052498996

Hi-Fi wanna-be needing advice on an Amp purchase

The Hi-Fi bug has bitten and I'm looking to upgrade my Yamaha receiver with a quality amp at a Mid-Fi price (under $1,000). I currently have the Paradigm Reference Studio 60s that are poorly driven by an under-powered, awfully bright Yamaha receiver. For the time being, the Yamaha will remain in the configuration as the pre-amp. Through my local dealers, I've been courting the Adcom 5500/5503, Rotel RB-1080 and the Anthem MCA 20. I had a weekend test drive of an Anthem MCA 2, which convinced me I needed to upgrade, but now for a decision. Any advice on great amp match-up for Studio 60s???
avalon65
bulldogger
274 posts
 
I'd buy a used Aragon 8002. Great amp and a true bargain. I feel it actually better than it's highly regared big brother the 8008.
mcfarland
356 posts
 
How about a YBA Integra DT integrated? I've seen them on A-Gon for about $1200. The extra $200 is a reach but quality is high. Happy listening with whatever you choose.
mboldda1269a
26 posts
 
try the denon pma-2000ivr intergrated amp it is rated at 80 watts but has 120 amps of current. look it up on the denon web site. i also have paradigm studio 60's and the denon amp killed two citation 100 watt amps in bi- amp config.
sufentanil's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
sufentanil
782 posts
 
I would try an integrated instead and let your Yamaha be for a second system. Perhaps a Musical Fidelity A3cr integrated (under $1000 used), or a Jolida 302B (under $1000 NEW). I haven't heard it, but nobody has said anything bad about the Audio Refinement Complete ($600 or so used).

The best thing to do would be to see if you can borrow some amps, or take your receiver to a high-end shop and plug its preouts to one of their amps to see if you hear a noticeable difference. Since you want good sound on a budget, I'd still lean toward the integrated, though.

Good luck!

Michael
zoya
120 posts
 
I second Musical Fidelity. A second choise (maybe even first) McIntosh - MC7100 - great 100w amp.
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