2. amps-preamps
  3. 179365-110830

NEED TO REPLACE OLD FAITHFUL- WHICH AMP. SHOUD I CHOOSE

27 Years ago I purchased a brand new Audio Research D400 Mk.2 Amplifier. 200 Watts per channel solid state. Last weekend the capacitors blew out. I talked to Greg at Audio Research and he told me they do not work on this model because of it's age and that parts are no longer available. I need to buy a new amp. I have an Audio Research Ref. 5 SE pre amp and use Dali Helicon 800 mk. 2 speakers that are 89.5 efficiency.

The list of amplifiers that I am considering are as follows.

Coda 16, McIntosh MC462, Aesthetix Atlas Stereo, 

On the tube side I am considering,

Zesto Audio Bia120,  VTL S120, Ayon Triton Evo Mono's and maybe Audio Research Reference 160S but that really stretches the budget.

Does anyone have any of these amps?  I would really appreciate your suggestions.  So far I kind of like the Coda 16

motorheadflash

Showing 3 responses by motorheadflash

motorheadflash OP
10 posts
 

WOW Thanks for all the great input. I am still waiting to hear from the repair shop on what is actually wrong with my old amp. I know this service tech. and he will want to do a full repair. I know he will not overcharge me. I have had many pieces of ARC equipment over the years, and have loved them all. This is the first time any of it has broken down. After 27 years I'm not disappointed. Ref. 150SE sounds like a great idea. Although I love the looks of that Accuphase. I will keep you all posted

motorheadflash OP
10 posts
 

Thanks guys, I have taken the D400 to a very reputable repair shop,and they are trying to find some caps to do the repair. I would like to get it fixed so I can sell it and purchase a new amp or use it as a trade in. Jason, you are right. Looks like the repair has been ball parked at $1000.00 to $1200.00 dollars. It is still 27 years old and I think I would like to upgrade. Juan, we have an Atma-Sphere dealer near me. I like the hand wiring and quality they offer. Will plan on being there later this week

motorheadflash OP
10 posts
 

Right now my D400 is in the shop, and I am waiting to rear back from them next week. They  said it sounded like output transistors, but said now might be a good time to re-cap too. He was confident that he could get all the parts needed to do the repair. The shop has been in business for over 40 years and I have used them before, and trust them. I will keep everyone posted on what happens.

In the meantime I am still shopping for a new amp. 

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