$4500 ?? Everything on his lists sells used for under $1300. Sure the DNA-2 is better, but so are lots of amps at that price. Let's not blow his budget. If you want an alternative, then Sim does make nice amps and the W-3 would be in your price range used and is constructed basically the same as the W-5, just less power. It is also in the same 120 watt range. I do agree that your personal taste does matter in which one you choose. I would search out reviews on them all. Will be the same as asking us. Everything on your list is fine.
Testing Your Amplifier Experience/Recommendation
A challenge, not to mention my undying appreciation, to those of you with mucho experience with amplifier/speaker matching. I own a new pair of NHT 2.9 speakers. I need an amplifier, and prefer a tube sound to bring out the midrange in the 2.9s. HOWEVER, for various reasons I am looking only at solid state amps. I intend to drive them with a tube pre to be purchased once I decide on the amp.
I listen in a "medium" size room, to classical - both orchestral (Mahler, R. Strauss, Wagner, etc) and chamber; jazz - both electronic and acoustic; and various pop or latin stuff. So, from very loud, to soft.
I have narrowed down my choices to the following, and your challenge is to recommend one over the others, and why (and no, unfortunately I am not able to audition any of them without buying them first):
1. Audio Research D200
2. Marsh A200S
3. Bryston 4B-ST
4. Blue Circle BC22
5. Edge M6
Your recommendations are immensely appreciated, since without an amp, my speakers are rather worthless, and I would like to start listening again. That's more important than anything, but I would like to make a good choice.
Thanks!!!!!!!
I listen in a "medium" size room, to classical - both orchestral (Mahler, R. Strauss, Wagner, etc) and chamber; jazz - both electronic and acoustic; and various pop or latin stuff. So, from very loud, to soft.
I have narrowed down my choices to the following, and your challenge is to recommend one over the others, and why (and no, unfortunately I am not able to audition any of them without buying them first):
1. Audio Research D200
2. Marsh A200S
3. Bryston 4B-ST
4. Blue Circle BC22
5. Edge M6
Your recommendations are immensely appreciated, since without an amp, my speakers are rather worthless, and I would like to start listening again. That's more important than anything, but I would like to make a good choice.
Thanks!!!!!!!