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Looking for an amp that punches way about its weight and I can grow with

So recently I purchase a McIntosh MC300 from a reputable dealer and got it and plugged it in and turned it and a nice arc/small flame came out the top and then the amp no longer worked.  So I am sending it back, and sending back a McIntosh is no funny it is too heavy and there are too may boxes!!!  Anyway this have given me time to think and do a lot more reading and I find this forum has some very open views on their thoughts which I love.  So that being said I am looking for an amp that punches way above its weight.  They will be driving Martin Logan Electromotion ESL's.  I know that electrostatic speakers require amps over watts (I think that is what I have be reading but I am still learning)

So a couple of the important details; my budget is around $3000 with a little wiggle room.  The rest of my system is as follows: SOTA Sapphire VI turntable, McIntosh MP100 Phono pre, Schiit Feya+ tube rolled pre.  90% of the music I listen to is Rock the other 10% is Jazz.  I am looking for something that will last me awhile and be great for a Martin Logan upgrade at some point.  I have been looking at some stuff by Rogue and Odyssey but dont know the brands well.  I also live out on the middle of nowhere and all I really have available to listen to is McIntosh.  So any feedback would be greatly appreciated.   
128x128justinrphillips

Showing 1 response by ggc

ggc
178 posts
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwhSVatAMSE

I would agree with going with Rogue. If you are able, I suggest that you invest in The
M 180/150 Mono Blocks, perhaps source them in the used market to keep closer to your Budget.

I Invested in a pair of M150s in 2008, then Upgraded them to M180s in 2012. I still have them today and plan on having them. If I were to make an upgrade in an Amp it would be to the Apollos, but I can not quite seem to reasonably justify that move.

The M180 are extremely versatile. I have tube rolled to maximize the sound I am looking for. They accommodate El/34, KT66,77,88,90,120, and the signal tube combinations(NOS) are substantial. Additionally the more power you feed them the more exceptional they get. With the overall money I saved on the Rogue brand, I was able to invest in a Notable Power delivery system.   

I have put these Rogue Amps up against brands that are 100-500% more expensive, and they have always come out on top.  Consider it a long term investment in the foundation of your listening enjoyment. The Juice is worth the squeeze .

Good Luck
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