SS Amp Recommendations?


I need a newer amp and recommendations are appreciated. The parameters are these:

Used, but new as possible.

100 watts minimum, 2 channel. I have built my own speakers.

$500 maximum. This figure is due to our rotten economy and my tight fisted, Yankee cheapness. You can never tell what the future may bring with our bonkers economy. Money is an issue even with this hobby.

The music I listen to: All Rock (no G.D. rap!) , jazz, classical. Heavy emphasis on Frank Zappa, Jeff Beck, Pink Floyd, Al DiMeola you get the picture.

Again, I appreciate any comments even on my cheapness or choice in music too!
barroter
Try to find an old Crown D300 ...If you can find one in good condition it will definatly play rock very well..
Emotiva UPA-2 ??

http://emotiva.com/upa2.shtm

I know virtually nothing about this company other than they advertise in Tone Audio, I was curious and visited their web site.

Since they sell direct, I would assume you could try one out...and send it back if not to your liking.
There are two very good amps out here now, that are much less than $500.00 Someone has a "micro integrated drive" from McCormack and the other is a Musical Concepts modified B&K ST140 (around 100wpc) - this was a classic recommended amplifier in Stereophile for over 10 years - that one is listed for around $200.00 - The McCormack is only 50 wpc but is class A, and sounds warm like tubes - Best luck
Maybe in this rotten economy someone will sell you a McCormack DNA 0.5 for around $500. It'll have some years on it but they've proven to be a pretty reliable/robust design, and resale is good. Mine's over 10 yrs old and the only thing I've done is change a couple fuses. Best of luck.
If you can get a McCormack amp-do it. Otherwise look at B&K ST140 ($200-250 used). Also consider Musical Fidelity.