Recommend ~9"-wide 2-ch Power Amp with XLR input - please


I’m assembling a ’mini’ system, to serve as 2nd 2-ch system using spare; Node (N130 with outboard linerar PSU), Denefrips Ares 2 DAC (with firmware allowing volume adjustment) and a pair of GoldenEar Triton 3+ speakers. Since the Node and Ares2 are ’mini’ component sized (8-9"-wide), thought to find a matching amp to create a ’mini’ rack. The GE Triton3+ have built-in 1200w amp for their bass speakers, so really ony need to drive the mids & tweets. GE’s have AMT tweeters, which I like very much, but they can be ’bright’ at times, so ideally not an amp known to lean on the harsh side. These speakers would probably sound best with a warm-sounding amp. Amps on my radar:

  • Schitt Vidar (missing stereo XLR)
  • VTV Hypex nCore 252MP
  • S.M.S.L. AO-200MKII (good value?)
  • Advance Paris BX-1 (beautiful VU meters) <-- can’t find in US?

Anyone happen to have a BX-1 to sell in the US? (PM me)

I am aware some amp mfg’s have made ’mini’ versions over the years (like maybe McIntosh, Krell, etc.), but I’m not knowledgeable enough to know what specific make/models I’d be looking for. Used is fine with me.

Sincerelty appreciate recommendations.

mwatsme

The Creek 4040a is AWESOME sounding, with a natural warmth & richness I didn’t think could be had from a Class D amp,is about the size of a good novel (8.5" wide x 10" deep ) & has a Balanced XLR input...
https://www.creekaudio.com/products/integrated-amplifiers/4040-a/#

Awesome recommendations - thank you!

I've moved ahead with ordering the Advance Paris BX-1 from France.
One of the only power amps I could find that was class A/B, with stereo XLRs, giant VU meters and attractive pricing. I have no problem with class D, been playing in that land awhile and want something different this time. Hopefully I receive the unit, undamaged, functioning and am not disappointed with performance.

At this moment, it feels like a risky gamble. We'll see how this turns-out...