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Are There Any Good, High Power Solid State Amps?

I feel like I'm running low on power with my current 100 watt tube amp, so I'm looking for suggestions. I'd like to try solid state, but I want an amp with an airy, rich tonality. I've been thinking either Pass (love the XA series, but I'm afraid it won't be enough power) Pass X, Krell, Clayton, etc. Can you make any suggestions (new or used somewhere in the $5K - $10k range)?
Thanks in advance.
louisl
tvad
9,467 posts
 
02-16-09: Philefreak
It's funny to me how Pass's pure class A sounds different from Plinius or Clayton pure class A.

Would you mind briefly describing the differences?

Thanks.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
02-16-09: Philefreak
It's funny to me how Pass's pure class A sounds different from Plinius or Clayton pure class A.

Would it also then be funny how one triode tube amp could sound different from another triode tube amp? How about one turntable sounding different from another turntable? Or maybe one CDP sounding different from another CDP? Etc, etc, etc.

This hobby is filled with funny stuff.

John
avguygeorge
2,300 posts
 
I run the CJ 350,a SS design.--It does sound better NOT plugged into my Audience conditioner.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
duh...
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
I would suggest McCormack's DNA-500. IMO its got it all at that price point, with no compromises. If you haven't heard one, reading the reviews will give you a good idea of how good it really is.

Pretty much all the amps mentioned above have their supporters, and rightly so. One thing that stands out for me is that Steve M. monitors this forum and often answers questions about his products here. Customer service doesn't get much better than that, and I think sometimes that gets overlooked in the rush for the "latest, greatest, etc.." Something for you to consider.....
Good luck
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