2. amps-preamps
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Solid state amp to go with tube preamp; used ok; budget: $3k max

I may have posed a similar question like this a while back, but I'm curious to get any updated thinking from folks, older or newer.

Situation: I have a Quicksilver Line Stage preamp and 60w monoblocks. I'm happy with them. I'd like to have a solid state amp to swap in for the monoblocks from time to time (weather, variety).

Typical desiderata in the amp are, as you'd expect, great grip on bass and pacing, smooth highs, good presence in mids, as wide and deep a soundstage as possible.

I tried Atoll 120wpc integrated (bypassing the preamp), Van Alstine SET 400, and my old Adcom 535L. None did the above to my satisfaction --problem mainly with mid, treble and with soundstage depth.

I've heard that stepping up the quality could bring something to the table, and to look out for Hegel, Ayre, Pass. Open to any topology. My speakers are 87 db, 8 ohm, and are driven just fine by 60w tube or solid state.

Specific recommendations for brands and models are welcome. I'm willing to buy, try, and re-sell if there's a good chance I'll want to keep it.

I'm going to be watching for things on used sites. Again, for this I'm setting an upper limit of $3k but am hopeful I could do fine with much less.
128x128hilde45
kennyc
1,218 posts
 
Odyssey Khartago- positive reviews, seems like great price/performance.  Magico’s Alon Wolfe likes them:
https://www.hifivision.com/threads/odyssey-khartago-used-by-alon-wolf-of-magico.8622/
boomerbillone
329 posts
 
Hello hilde45. The Starke Sound A4-320 is unbeatable, the best value in power amps. Check the reviews. I have three and plan to buy two more (I have five systems.). Home trials, OK. Enjoy the music.
smandlej
70 posts
 
I use a Chord SPM 1050 Mk1 available second-hand for about £2K in the UK as people upgrade to the new Ultra range. Mk 2's are more expensive. Chord amplification is used by the Royal Opera House in London and by a very famous group (Pink Floyd ?), the SPM 1050 is good for 180 watts per side. Should be able to buy one stateside where they were well reviewed. Built to last.
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pennfootball71's avatar
pennfootball71
250 posts
 
Belles is better than Pass Labs by a mile and uses better caps and higher quality parts in their virtuoso and Ayer Signature lines.
Pass Labs has a distributor that is marking them up too much to make more profit.
Their preamps are terrible...Pass Amps are okay though. 

I heard them all. 
I use Mola Mola monoblocks myself but they are out of your budget and are the best amps I ever heard next to even higher dollar Audionet and pilium amplifiers.
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