Knowing the work that John Hillig does. I would not hesitate to have the B&K upgraded. If you like the sound of your amp why change. What can you buy new for 600 that will compare. If you buy used you may be getting something that in a few years may putyou back in the same place you are now. I have never heard the B&K with upgrades, but like the sound of the stock one. I have heard the Musical Concepts Hafler mods and think they compete with much of the new stuff in 2 to 3k range. The draw back is they don't look nearly as nice.
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?