Power Amp recommendations


My Rotel RB-1080 power amp has been having problems losing the right channel- it's been fixed, but the guy told me he'd discovered it's a known problem with several models of Rotel.

I'm thinking about looking to replace the amp, though I've enjoyed it quite a lot, and am looking for suggestions. Over the past year or two, I've returned to listening to LPs almost exclusively, and have built a pretty nice selection of audiophile quality 180/200 gram LPs, including quite a few MOFI titles.

My present set-up is as follows:
Music Hall 5.1 se turntable
Denon DVD 3910
Marantz bd 5004
Marantz 7001 pre-amp
Rotel RB-1080 power amp
Revel F12 speakers

What should I be looking at to replace the Rotel? Is there a reasonably affordable way to get into tube amps, if I were so inclined, and should I even consider them?
rrichmo

Showing 2 responses by vhiner

Buying an amp is a greatly misunderstood process, even among some audiophiles. You'll get a lot of opinions on this thread, but the best suggestions will come from those who have actually owned your model of speakers. Many years of experimentation has taught me that suggestions by those without direct experience usually amount to just speculation and questionable theory. Some combinations "should" work, but do not.

Speaker/amplifier synergy is *critical.* For example, I have owned your Marantz receiver but have never heard the F12s. Consequently, any suggestion I make about a particular amp would be theoretical at best.

It would also help people if they knew your price range and what kinds of sounds you like and don't like. Your best leads in this particular audio conundrum will come from Focal owners who have gone before you. Good luck on your search.
ZD542'

LOL. Should've said "buying the amp that'll float your boat." Good point.