Looking For A Change


I have had an Emotiva XPA2 Gen 2 for 1.5 years and have enjoyed it.  However, I'm looking to replace it with something with a bit more sonic sophistication.  I'm retired, and now have more time than money.  Accordingly, I'm looking for a quality used power amp for about $1K to $1.5K.  My preamp will continue to be an Emotiva XPS 1.  This is an exceptional preamp with a very good phono section.  My DAC is a Wyred4Sound DAC Two, and my music library is quite varied with both vinyl and digital sources.   I'm looking for about 200 Watts per channel @ 8 ohms.  Speakers consist of two sets of KEF R101's, wonderful sounding units, but a tad inefficient, along with a pair of Definitive Tech BP 2060's.  Thus, the need for power.  I am looking at the following amps:

Bryston 4b, the original model;
Brystom 4b NRB;
Musical Fidelity A 300cr;
Accuphase P-300.
Van Alstine Synergy 450
Belles 400

All of the above are within my budget target with the original Bryston 4b at the low end (it is however 27 years old, but cherry condition) and the rest clustered within the target.  The Accuphase has been recently refurbished and recapped by an authorized service center and is certified to meet published specs.  I assume all of the above will be a sonic improvement.  The XPA2 sounds very nice, but is a bit brutish with classical and choral music.  I am intrigued by the Accuphase, but it is a 30 year old amp.  Any input will be greatly appreciated.  
128x128zerobias
I owned that Accuphase many moons ago and I didn’t think it was a ball of fire. It is 150 watts and over 40 years old. At your budget you should take a look at this Odyssey Audio amp . It is 150 watts and new. BTW, you can return it if you don't like it!
http://www.odysseyaudio.com/products-stratos-stereo.html
Vidar
Benchmark AH2B
new W4S NexGen

you can try out the 1st two and return
For around $350 used ($1000 when new) you could buy a ADCOM GFA 555 200wpc (8ohm) amplifier and a GFP 565 preamp $300 used ($800 when new) the GFP has one of the best sounding phono sections made. These two together will provide a very astonishing sound that will be the best bang for the buck imo.


Matt M
I advise against buying a 20 year or older amp.  Many quality used one's less than 10 years old come available at your budget.