2. amps-preamps
  3. 194567-184121

Interim SS Amp - Likely Candidates?

Due to an upcoming move and renovation in our new home I am looking for a short term replacement amp fhat could be a suitable stand in for my beloved First Watt F8 amp. The rest of my system consists of a Modwright LS99 tube preamp, Volti Razz speakers, Aurender N200 streamer, Schitt Yggy LIM DAC plus a Modwright PH 9.0. tube phono stage and a ClearAudio Concept turntable with an AT- ART9XI cartridge.  Most of my listening is on the digital side. 

Short term based on the limited space my system will reside in ,the First Watt can’t play a part due to size of the space and the heat issue with this Class A.  Good news is that my Volti speakers are highly efficient and I will not need a big power amp.  Also as we renovate I am looking at the ideal space and layout for my system that will include the First Watt F8.  

I want to go with a solid-state amp as the combination of this with my Modwright LS99 is magic.  Looking to spend $2,500- $3,000 and will be open to used or new.  So far I have been thinking of Class AB or D offerings.  I am totally open to suggestions at this point.  Below are a few of the candidates that might fill my need and work well with my other components.  I do realize that each amp will bring a different "flavor" from my First Watt F8. 

  • Orchard Starkrimson 25 Mono premiums (new)
  • Parassound A21+ Halo (used)
  • Primare A35.2 (used)
  • Bell Canto 501 Monoblocks 

Help me out with thoughts on the above and other potential amps!  Many thanks in advance........ 

norust

Showing 2 responses by allenf1963

allenf1963
385 posts
 

@jasonbourne71 -- I find your replies on this Forum to be very refreshing.  You consistently make sane and reasonable comments, and seem to always strive for value.

 

I agree with you 100% on this Forum Question.  Unless you start your campfires with $20 bills, why on Earth would you spend $3,000 on an "interim" piece of gear?  In my humble opinion, unless you can flip it and get your money back, that is a waste of money that could be used elsewhere.  There are too many very good budget amps available such as the Fosi you mentioned and ANY amp from Schiit Audio.  Usually, Schiit Audio has great deals on B-Stock gear on their website.

 

One question I did not see addressed: How long is the "interim" period shaping up to be?  3 months?  6 months?  1 year?  The answer would drive what I would want to spend.  Good luck, @norust!

 

 

allenf1963
385 posts
 

@norust -- Keep us informed on your decision!  I was just joking with my comment about the campfire, I’m glad you weren’t offended.  A year is definitely a long time -- I thought you were talking about 3 or 4 months.  It makes sense to get an amp that you can use in your main system, then move to a secondary system.  I would definitely look at Schiit Audio. 

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