Transients hurting my ears on hifi solid state amps


I've looked at many discussions on listening fatigue and similar topics, but haven't really found the answer to the specific problem I've been having.

To me, modern higher end solid state amplifiers tend have too much slam or too sharp transients and that ends up hurting my ears even at 60db levels. Even listening to mellow jazz, the piano notes are just uncomfortable to listen to because of the attack.

I currently have Buchardt S300 Mk II speakers, which are not high sensitivity by any stretch, and are rather smooth sounding, but I don't know if they could contribute to the issue somehow?

The worst case regarding amplifiers I tried was the Rogue Sphinx V2, which is 100W hybrid Class D with tube preamp. Another I had at home for an extended period and had an issue with was the Arcam SA20, which should be a relatively smooth sounding amplifier, and it did get a little closer to what I was looking for.

I currently have a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated and I'm very happy with it. The amp I tried to replace was a Marantz PM6005, which is also very smooth. Both are under the recommended power rating of the speakers (even though that's relative for a tube amp), so I'm wondering whether that could be part of it.

I listen mostly to vinyl (Graham Slee Reflex M preamp) with some digital too (Denafrips Pontus II). Both are relatively smooth and vinyl, while usually being softer, doesn't solve the issue. 

I'm looking to switch back to solid state (class AB) for various reasons and I was wondering if anybody had had similar experiences and recommendations for amps? Most amps, especially higher end, tend to emphasize the dynamics, punch, agility, etc. and I struggle to find anything that would seem to fit the bill. Tubes seem to do the trick for me, especially with some tube rolling, but not sure where to go with solid state. The budget would be around 2000$.

haskisoundi

@haskisoundi 

You might be able to find a used Hegel H360. It’s class A/B and has more than enough power for your speakers. It’s neutral to a bit warm sounding. It’s probably going to be more than 2K, but you never know.

All the best.

JD

I had that happen to me.....I sent the speaker back to the manufacturer who fixed the problem,

What is your budget? If it is just a few hundred you could consider a vintage MOSFET power amp like a Hafler. Should sound relatively “sweet” due to the lower order harmonics without breaking any banks.

@zonkler +1! Those old Hafler DH200/220 amps are forgotten treasures! Capable of going up against today’s overpriced amps. I have one, along with the Hafler preamp!

@jasonbourne52 Yep, my DH220 is just lovely. Only drawback is the class A heat but the upside is in my northern climate it doubles as a space heater in the winter. Depending on the poster’s power needs a DH120 or DH500 would be just as nice.