Solid state "backup" amp recommendation


Too hot to run my BAT VK-75SE all day on weekend during summer, like to have a solid state amp to fill that job instead. Will be a "backup" amp to my BAT, so can't spend a fortune on it. Budget can be $1k to $2.5k, it's a big range I know. Another criteria is XLR input so I don't need an adaptor.

Have tried Pass X-350, Rowland 8TiHC, McCormack DNA-2 Deluxe, Accuphase P-450, Levinson 331, Forte 4A and many others in the past, favorite was Forte for its musical and tube like sound especially considering its price. But I would like a little more power not to mention something newer for peace of mind.

Amps I am considering, Pass X-250, BAT VK-200/500, Classe CAM-200. What will you vote for? I am leaning toward Pass. Anything else I should consider?
semi

Showing 2 responses by gunbei

I can relate to your situation. I primarily run a Bel Canto SET40 which runs very hot, and use a BAT VK200 as an alternate. The only thing is that the VK200 runs pretty damn hot as well! I really liked the Pass Aleph 3 in my system, and if not for an impedance mismatch I would have kept it. That makes the X-250 an intriguing possibility.
Semi,

As Pdreher says,the VK200 does indeed run hot. You may be able to touch the top of the case, but the heatsinks will definitely give you permanent waffle fingers, heheh.

If the newer Pass Labs amps runs hot as well, I'd consider the CI Audio monoblocks as Tvad suggests.

Let us know what you decide on!