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

My understanding is ROON does not do that and pulls music from all your digital sources seamlessly (?)

Yeah Roon would display your local library integrated with your online streaming service.   I can't speak to that as my local file storage is attached to my Bryston Pi.  When I want to listen to those files I switch the Bryston from a Roon endpoint to its internal player (MPD), only takes seconds to do.  Someday I might get around to attaching the storage to the Sonic Transport that hosts the ROON server and indexing it there just to see what it it looks and sounds like.  I think the Brysto/MPD combination sounds a bit more open and lively than ROON.  ROON is fine for general listening.   I think the only limit to the number of tracks in ROON is hardware.  Lots of threads on it over on the ROON community site. 

@fred60 I already have a class D setup with Sonos Amp I currently have. I prefer a A/B SQ (I suspect most others here do as well) The Sonos is rated at 125 WPC but the SQ is still very class D. Truthfully, I'd prefer recommendations from folks that have had actual experience with the gear they would advise I consider buying. That being said the Sonos Amp is a good amp handles every speaker I've paired with it ok and has its place but I'm seeking a warmer less glassy sound. I'm far enough along the way to know the SQ I like, and I have not come across a class D set up I could fall in love with yet.

@balooo2 "I have not come across a Class D set up I could fall in love with yet".  That is exactly why I suggest seeking out some of the new Class D designs that use the Purifi modules.  They are apparently in their own class-- and have none of the old Class D flavor.  Some say that they are a step above anything else, including Class A, Class A/B, etc.  I'm just saying don't dismiss them.  Maybe someone will chime in on this that has experience with new Class D designs.

@fred60 I understand where you’re coming from, and I have considered the Purifi module amps. Having both D & A/B amps in my home I find the D gear is for casual listening only. Make no mistake class D is coming like it or not. I see what NAD has done with the higher end amps the reviews are good, but I have not heard any of the new designed D and hybrid amps out there. Based on all the recommendation received A/B is overwhelmingly still the way to go and the Purifi module amps have to prove themselves with the rank and file that’s why I put the question to this forum, not many class D recommendations did not escape me. I knew I would get overall honest responses and I do appreciate yours.

Thanks for the input and Happy New year!

Lots of good info here from others. Here is my advice based on my experience, FWIW.

Get two Outlaw Audio monoblocks if you have the room. Previous generation monoblocks (Model 2200) are awesome and have a low height profile. Their new generation (Model 2220) are taller but also very good. High power Class A/B, and you get separates.

I am also looking to go Class D myself, and I am looking toward the high-value proposition of Buckeye Amps. Buckeye sells a stereo amp based on the Hypex 252 module for half of your budget. Or if you want a Purifi stereo amp you might have to go a bit above your budget.

If you’re looking for more than just amps, though, (like an integrated amplifier that has a DAC, a volume control, multiple source inputs, etc.,) then none of the above suggestions will help you. There are a TON of options for integrated amps. I have experience with used Parasounds (various models, but he original A23 is excellent.)  But again, there are a TON of good options if you need an integrated amp; see others' comments or be prepared to devote a good amount of time researching on the internet and/or YouTube if you know who to trust or just to see if you can find a consensus on some models and brands.