2. amps-preamps
  3. 1068746832

Power + a bit of warmth for $2K or less?

I need a high current amp for hungry speakers - close to 200 w into 8 ohms with near-doubling into 4 ohms. But would also like refinement, and a teeny bit of warmth. Used is what I am looking at.
Some candidates at the moment are: Bryston 4BST/SST, Aragon 8008MkII, and perhaps Spectron Musician II. This last one is a dark horse; not sure what to make of it. Does it do well into 4 ohms? Sure, the numbers are high, but it goes from 500 into 8 to 600 into 4, only a 20% increase...?
Any suggestions for other amps that fit the bill? Attractive looks certainly not a drawback either.
kck
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
I've heard the newer Brystons are smoother than their older siblings, but I don't know if you could consider them warm.

Besides the Aragon look into the Classe CA200/300, Plinius SA100/250, BAT VK200/500, and McCormack DNA1 and 2.

Good luck!
Post removed 
lsilver507
11 posts
 
bel canto is great sounding
budrew
467 posts
 
Used Mcintosh.
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
Find a Krell Ksa-150 that has been back to Krell in the last couple of years..you can find these at around $1,700-$2,000. I don't know about the Spectron (I have never listened to one), but this amp has what you are looking for and has plenty of power. It will drive 1 ohm load with no problem. It does not run near as hot as it's big brother (Ksa-250).

Dave
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