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HELP!!!! Newbie looking for a decent 2 channel power amp in the $1,000 range

I am trying find a decent 2 channel power amp to replace my Sonos Amp connected to Kef R3's and RSL Speedwoofer MKII.

I was considering the Emotiva TA2 but based on the comments/reviews here I beleive I could do better going 2X on price over the Emo and be open to a used unit.  I prefer  warm to neutral with detail sound profile.I'd also like an amp that is north of 100 WPC becuase my listening space is midsized (open floor plan approx 600 SF).

Thanks to all in advance!

balooo2
coachpoconnor's avatar
coachpoconnor
378 posts
 

I recently saw a Job 225 for right at $1000.00

Goldman designed if I remember correctly

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
900 posts
 

why not simply deploy a decent dac, recieve as intended updates from Sonos and be done with it? Yes the Sonos is limited to CD quality bit rate etc for... now.

I to run a ZP 90 into a Modi although not a W4S moded one. Every component in the chain makes a difference. This site is loaded with people talking about what noticeable SQ improvements you can get with upgraded digital source components. The W4S mod completely replaces the I2s bus and clocking mechanism. W4s is a respectable outfit with years of experience in Digital and Class D implementations. I don’t think they would risk reputation tarnish with fluff products. But the question is whether it makes a difference for you type of listening. I compared both unmoded and mod’d units and think it does, especially for extended listening sessions. Plenty of independent reviews out there as well. My Moded ZP90 has been in service going on 5 years.

 

I would speculate the Mod brings the Port up to the SQ of a Bluesound node but then you have the elegant bombproof SONOS interface. 

 

 

cpdkee
31 posts
 

I have a Rogue Audio Sphinx v3 and have been so happy. I recently weswitched to a Rogue audio Cronus Magnun 3 and and even happier. the sphinx had tons of power for my kef 104/2's. You can easily find a used one for 1k or a little more. 

 

byner
12 posts
 

I own a acurus  150 power amp I picked up for 300 two years ago. It is amazing!

balooo2 OP
93 posts
 

@jbuhl I’ve been curious to discuss a modified ZP 90 with someone that actually owns one,was seriously considering going that route and then the product revisions came took the 30% discount and “upgraded”  to the port. Truthfully I believe the Port is WAY overpriced for what it is these days.

$275 with the discount four years ago was an ok deal but $450 now yikes!  A Wiim pro does the same job and based on what I can gather the output/dac delivery is truly outstanding folks have compared it to the Port and like it more.

question: do you use any S2 components?

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