2. amps-preamps
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Amp Upgrade - 3k to 4k used?

Hi Folks:
I’m thinking of upgrading my amps and would value some advice. I currently have Blue Circle BC2 Monos. I’ve been really happy with them, but the upgrade bug is starting to bite again. I could spend about $3k to $4k on the used market. I’m particularly keen on tube amps (especially low powered SET), but not sure if my speakers would be efficient enough. I know my CD player is a little old too, but don’t think an upgrade here will get me a big bang for the buck. I’ll also consider upgrading IC and SC as well a little later on, but want really really good stuff (FIM or Valhalla likely). Another option may be to get a Shunyata Hydra. The rest of my system is:

Audio Physic Virgo II (89Db efficiency, I think)
Sonic Frontiers Line III – (but expecting delivery of Supratek Chardonnay in a month or so).
YBA CD 1a
Nordost SPM IC & OTA Sakura IC
OTA Sakura Speaker Cable
3 Shunyata Sidewinder Power Cords, 2 YBA Diamond Power Cords, 1 pair of Bybee IC Filters, FIM outlets.

All advice and recommendations welcome. Thanks,
John.
128x128outlier
labtec
182 posts
 
If you're eventually looking to upgrade to JMLabs Mezzo Utopia's, you may just want to save the $3-4k you're looking to spend on amps and allocate it to the JMLabs.

I suspect the change in speakers will be much more dramatic then changing amps. Besides, the amps you buy now may not mate as perfectly with the JMLabs.

Nevertheless, I think it would be worthwhile checking out the Manley, Rogue and Audio Research gear if you're looking for something that may give you a different perspective from the Blue Circle.
pkc_b2
8 posts
 
Keep those BC's, and send them back to Gilbert to update to BC2-8's (2500) or the BC2-8000's (4000.00). I would send my 2.1's back, but I spent way too much on audio lately. Check out the web page, getting 80% of the AG8000 (14,000.00) for 4k is a deal.
rockhead
83 posts
 
If you really want the BAT's with the Chardonnay, Mick will make 1 of the sets of outs XLR for $50. I know that doesn't make it balanced, but you could skip the adaptors.
Patrick
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