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B&K ST-140 amplifier buying decision

I have heard good things about this old amplifier. I like lush sound and read this amp fits the bill. Is it that good? Is it worth to pay $300 for it?

I have read there are two versions of this amp. I believe the one I put links below is the first/“better” version. Can someone confirm?

I don’t see any serial or tag on the back but it is old, so it is fine. I doubt it is something else inside :)

It is in working condition but probably would need to be recapped soon. So, that’s another cost. I do want to try this type old amps but then I am not that handy when it comes to fixing this type of stuff. Can do some fixing but not enough. 

https://ibb.co/GCSSsjf
https://ibb.co/pQ9ztym
https://ibb.co/Cw4dp8g
https://ibb.co/NtpKJ1B
celo
mesch
3,412 posts
 
I own one, purchased new in 1985. Had the toroid tranny. Owned it for 25 years. Sold it here on AG for $225 10years ago. 
mesch
3,412 posts
 
I own one, purchased new in 1985. Had the toroid tranny. Owned it for 25 years. Sold it here on AG for $225 10years ago. 
bdgregory
1,710 posts
 
I also have owned several Eagle 2 models. I still own a 2C prime (the last one ever made - says so right on the serial #plate). Much better amp, especially if you get the Eagle 2c prime, or Eagle 4 versions. They will likely need recapping too, and will cost more than the st140. There are some Eagle 2’s listed on eBay that are very overpriced (and not selling).
lou_setriodes's avatar
lou_setriodes
673 posts
 
The B&K ST140 had at least 7 different versions I believe, 3 black with silver handles (70 wpc, 105 wpc, 105 wpc w/ toroidal transformer) and the black with black handles with red lettering. And then silver lettering without handles and one with red lettering with no handles.  All were 105 wpc, except for the earliest version which was 70 wpc.  There was also the 70 wpc version with a push button power switch instead of the rocker switch which was the earliest 70 wpc version. 

Over the years, I had 2 of them, both silver lettering, 1 with handles, 1 without.  I prefer the earlier versions maybe because I’m an old head :)
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