I would second the McCormack recommendation. I recently made some changes to my system, including moving from a Classe 10 amp to a McCormack DNA-1 amp. The Classe was no slouch, but I could not be more happy with the improvement in my system. The DNA is very musical and smooth, and has a great, authoritative grip on the bottom end of my Vandersteen 2ce Sigs. The McCormack/Vandersteen match is great. Add to that the fact that Steve McCormack still supports and modifies his amps. I have sent a question or two his way and I get a response back directly from him within the day.....a nice plus for sure. Good luck.
Modern amp that has warmth and sound of B&K?
I am currently quite happy with my used B&K st-140 (105 watt) mated with a Nova Pre and current model ZU Omen Defs. The sound I am getting is warm and "groovy" FLOABT. However, upon reading, I realize the life of this amp to where it needs upgraded (caps, etc) could be quite short due to its age. I thought of the musical designs elite upgrade for the B&K for about $600. But, I could also just enjoy it unit it's end and just go with a newer amp.
One make that intrigues me is Vincent hybrid. The silkiness of tubes sound appealing..but would love to keep the warm, deepness that my current B&K offers. It seems the vincent could be the best of both worlds. However, the B&K is total SS and offers the flavor of sound I like.
No matter what amp I look up (Passlabs, Modwright, Bryston, etc), there are people who think they are too bright or too dark. I realize much has to do with the other components as well.
I also hear that Klaus at Odyssey will bias an amp to your liking (Khartgos look nice)
Thoughts?
One make that intrigues me is Vincent hybrid. The silkiness of tubes sound appealing..but would love to keep the warm, deepness that my current B&K offers. It seems the vincent could be the best of both worlds. However, the B&K is total SS and offers the flavor of sound I like.
No matter what amp I look up (Passlabs, Modwright, Bryston, etc), there are people who think they are too bright or too dark. I realize much has to do with the other components as well.
I also hear that Klaus at Odyssey will bias an amp to your liking (Khartgos look nice)
Thoughts?