Recommendations for "pure class a" amp under 1K


Hi,

I'm soon to be in the market for a used amp or monos running in pure class A for under 1K. What are you recommendations? My only requirements are 50+ watts and availability of parts (aside from price).

Thanks!
Eric
ericusrex
I had the Sumo 9+, which was 60watts class A, still show up on Audiogon for around $500, I had mine for 10 years and never had a problem with it.
For just a bit more you should be able to find a Pass Aleph 5. Outstanding SS amp...closest thing to tubes I've heard coming from anything SS. Sounds best when it's been puttin' out that class A heat for about 48 hours. At that point you should be able to cook your breakfast on it while your're listening to your Mahler.

Marco

PS Haven't heard it myself, but if budget is tight then an Aleph 3 is supposed to be very similar in character and should be just about 1K used. Only puts out 30 watts though, while the 5 puts out 60 watts. With the three you still may be able to toast some bread at least.
Kinergetics KBA-75 was a real nice amp and can be had for around $500 if you can find one. It bettered some of the higher priced amps in my system. Sweet mid range with nice extended bass. Has a built in fan so it runs as cool as a class A amp can run. Will drive any load too.

Happy Listening.