recommendation of amps


Just looking for a little guidance. Starting to look for an AMP.  Most likely solid state. I listen to R&R only, high 80's low 90's    Room 13x14 bathroom to one side hallway to another, normal furnishings, wood floors.  Speakers, Fritz carbon 7se bookshelf, SVS SB3000 Sub, Currently Peachtree amp 500 running system (not Bad)  Benchmark Dac 3B and LA-4 Benchmark Line Amp, Audiolab 6000 CD Transport, Everything Balanced, with the exception of the Transport. Stream Qobuz also. System sounds really good. Just looking for a TOP SHELF AMP.  Budget maybe 6-7 k new or used, (Less preferred)  Prefer new with warranty???  Have a ATI AMP 6002 in main system, in another room, much bigger room, and kicks ass, in every regard. Would like something different (maybe)  Current set up feels a little neutral, and analytical,   maybe looking for something a little warmer.  Have been looking at a used Pass Labs 250.8  for example     Maybe a little overkill though? Always a little nervous over tubes (scared even) Afraid of NOT ENOUGH JUICE to listen at my levels.  Very open to your suggestions. Thanks as always     Robert TN

robshaw

Showing 2 responses by jjss49

@robshaw

i agree the peachtree is clearly the weak link, and also agree you want the amp to bring some warmth to the music, as the benchmark gear is somewhat lean and precise sounding -- fritz speakers appreciate some midrange warmth in the signal to do their magic with vocals etc in the essential midband

i strongly recommend a pass xa30.5 to save considerable $$ over the xa30.8 driving the fritz’s at their efficiency -- luscious sounding amps, neither amp will ever break a sweat, run outside their class a envelopes ... you will save $ on your ongoing power bill too :)

presently i have two xa30.5’s (acquired for a cool biamping experiment), am happy to part with one (if your location and budget makes it practical) ... feel free to pm me