Help me with a major amp upgrade...


Hi,

I need your help and recommendations...

I am looking for a great 2 channel amp to power my speakers (Mezzo Utopia) which are part of 2 channel / HT setup. My current gear comprises of the Mezzo (accompanied by a Center Utopia and Elektra 905 as rears), Integra Research RDC7 as the processor, Electrocompaniet EMC1 and Marantz DV8400 as source and an Elektra Reference 5 channel amp. I am using ensemble cabling and PC’s as well.

I listen to a lot of 2 channel and while I rally like the setup (for both 2 channel and Movies/SACD/DVDA – all sound great) I am thinking about a major upgrade, starting with the Amp.

My budget is around $5K for the amp. What I want (guess everyone wants that…) is great clarity in the mids, big soundstage and good bass. I listen to Jazz, vocals, etc.

Any recommendation guys? I am not looking for tubes (although the Mezzo is very efficient) and would like to avoid huge amps (all of this sits in my living room…).

I am open to any suggestions and your help would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks,

Raanan
raananlerner
SimAudio Moon I-5 is a great choice if you want the simplicity of an integrated amp. SimAudio separates are unbeatable, too.
Best wishes,
Jay
1st- understand that your results will be massively affected by the amp's SYNERGY with your speakers.

Having said that, I will offer another recommendation for Sim Audio, ESPECIALLY the W-5 LE, of which there is a 10/10-condition used one for sale on the 'goN right now in your price range.

Also, since you are already familiar with the EMC-1 player, the Electrocompaniet AW220 monoblocks should definitely be something to consider. A nice used pair of these can be found for about half of your budget.

I have both of these models in my combo 2-channel/HT system right now, and listen to music that is very similar to what you describe. I feel they are both terrific products that get nowhere near the kudos that they deserve.

... But, YMMV...
.
Before you buy anything I would audition a wonderful Aussie amp, Redgum. I have a 120i which has been upgraded to a larger power supply and it is the most wonderfully musical amp you could find, easily as good as the more esoteric brands like Krell etc but at a much lower cost.
I suggest you visit redgum's website and take a look.