I powered the original Salons with a ML 333 and before that a Krell FPB 300. They were soon taken to task on just the bottom end of the speaker where they did a splendid job. An ARC VT100(1 thru 3) was provided for the lower mids to highs and the Salons began to sing. I went to an ARC VTM 200 and then a Conrad-Johnson Premier 12. Overhang is correct in praising the C-Js. Full and robust with great center-fill.
I've always enjoyed Audio Research, but the Salon needed a "thicker' sounding amp. As much as I enjoyed the C-J, a little more power was needed. The 200 wpc Moscode 401HR now powers my Salon2, and has the strengths of both ARC and C-J. Pass Labs X600 will soon provide the bass.
I haven't heard the newer designs of ML or Krell, but my suggestion is to try a well watted tube amp on top, with a solid, solid state on the bottom. As long as their voltage gain match up to at least 1 db, there should be no descrepancies in volume. Talk about presence!
all the best
I've always enjoyed Audio Research, but the Salon needed a "thicker' sounding amp. As much as I enjoyed the C-J, a little more power was needed. The 200 wpc Moscode 401HR now powers my Salon2, and has the strengths of both ARC and C-J. Pass Labs X600 will soon provide the bass.
I haven't heard the newer designs of ML or Krell, but my suggestion is to try a well watted tube amp on top, with a solid, solid state on the bottom. As long as their voltage gain match up to at least 1 db, there should be no descrepancies in volume. Talk about presence!
all the best