Solid state amp to replace my Audio Research Ref 150 amp
I have owned an Audio Research Ref. 150 for 4 years, but with tube changes and the heat, I'd like to find a solid state amp that would mate well with my Baby Nola speakers, as well as be 100% reliable and have the great sound my AR amp has given me. The AR amp was originally recommended by the Nola designer, Carl Marschiotta.
My listening tastes primarily range in jazz, classical, roots music, and Americana such as Jason Isbell. I do like to rock the house occasionally, but I greatly value the finesse I get from the AR 150, as well as the solid bass and dimensionally my amp provides in my system.
I don't want to replace my Audio Research preamp and phono preamp, so I am wishing for a solid state power amp that will fulfill my amplifier hopes, work with my other AR pieces an continue to provide me the pleasure my Audio Research amp has given me.
I have already mentioned it, but the SST Ampzilla 2000 mono blocks are in the league. These are worth a listen. No, not the same, but they do portray a fine line between tubes and solid state and truly are wonderful amps. Will they shaq's cup of tea? I don't know, but these are fine amps by any standard.
You've received a bunch of "recommendations" so far , any thoughts on what you are planning on doing? I am curious because I have both tubes and solid state. I go back and forth when I get tired of one, I move to the other. It keeps things interesting for me.
I have the Ref 250 (not se). I enjoy them a lot but the heat is too much in the summer. I tried many SS including Luxman, Pass, Ayre, MBL, Lamm. The Accuphase A70 is very similar to ARC in terms of tonal balance. Better bass extension but still not quite the same micro dynamics that tubes have (but close).
I was told that watt for watt, the Ref 75 SE is the best sounding ARC amp in the line up. Obviously if you need more power, then you have no choice but to move up the line.
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