Which stereo amp to try under $30k
May I suggest the Wells Audio Innamorata II Level II $15,000.00 USD? You can audition the amp in either Cambell or San Jose, CA There are a number of reviews of the Inamorata online. I think you’ll find Jeff Wells is a gentleman and a pleasure to deal with, and the audition worth the short drive south from SF. He'll tell you whether or not he thinks his best amp would be a good match for your speakers. No affiliation except that I own a "basic" Inamorata and Maggies. |
@mayoradamwest Jeff's cell: 408.376.0861 wells audio dot com He owned a brick and mortar high-end store for many years and is now building a line of wonderful electronics in cahoots with Scott Frankland and some other very talented folks. Scott is considered by many to be a legend, starting in the old days of MFA- Moore-Frankland. I bought my MFA tube gear in the mid 1980s and still have, and love it. Hope this helps, and I hope the info is within the bounds of Audiogon policies. |
@mayoradamwest "Cables are Transparent Reference, specifically chosen to match the Boulder setup. I could get the Boulder pre-amp, but it’s 55k...." I’m a car guy and FWIW, I could get a 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, but it’s 192,00k...." The eternal question: "When is good enough good enough?" Your money, your aspirations, and your ears. I’ll be interested in how your saga plays out. (no pun intended) Good luck. |
@mayoradamwest I find this thread mildly fascinating. To reiterate what others have asked: what is it you feel you’re missing and what is it that you’re hoping to find? Furthermore, why is $30K, for an amplifier, your "magic number?" Can you articulate how the level of your existing system relates to the level of musical enjoyment you derive when you sit down and simply listen to that system? Do you wonder how much more enjoyable it would, could, might be, how much better it would sound, if only you had the perfect amp? I mean no disrespect, and I ask out of curiosity. And I do wish you luck on your journey. |
I just remembered an astonishing audio experience that I was fortunate enough to have a couple of years ago. Someone I know, who happens to review for one of the major audiophile publications, invited me to hear his All-Gamut system. At the risk of being hyperbolic, it was truly mind-blowing. I mean the musicians were not only in the room but you felt as if you could almost touch them! One downside for you is that, apparently, the Gamut gear sounded by far, the best, with Shunyata cables. The price meets your budget, too! The amps: http://www.tonepublications.com/review/gamut-m250i-mono-power-amplifiers-preview/ |
Again, best of luck. Sometimes the goal remains elusive, and ultimately unobtainable long-term. #Slippery slope 101. Zen teachings can help ameliorate and diffuse, sometimes, but not always. I still think you should at least have a listen to a Wells Audio amplifier. It couldn't be more convenient for you. (no affiliation) :) |
Is there anyone here who believes that the more a component costs, the "better" it will sound? It seems to me that the variables are great and are always relative. One more somewhat rhetorical question, what constitutes musical satisfaction for those seeking the nth degree, and how do you know when "you're there?" If this is off-topic, mods, please delete. Thanks and cheers to all. |
