Best Solid State for Avalon Isis


I would appreciate informed comments regarding best solid-state synergy with Avalon Isis. I’m looking for an amp that will maintain absolute control of deep bass, while maintaining a rich and dynamic mid-range, and clarity without sacrificing musicality. It should be transparent, and allow a vast and layered soundstage to appear. Although the Isis appear relatively efficient (90db at 4ohm), the paired 13” woofers are going to need an amp with muscle.

Source is a Wadia 9 series. It runs direct. It does not need a pre-amp.

I listen to big, loud, congested orchestral music (ie. Mahler, Bruckner, Wagner). I like to hear all the detail, including the musician's technique and subtle alterations in tempo. Orchestral sections need to have mass. I want to feel the bass at low in addition to high volumes.

My room is 20 x 30 ft, and has plaster walls/ceiling with wood floors and padded area rugs. Tubes are not an option. Because of the room and source, I am not looking for an amp that is artificially fast or tipped toward the higher frequencies.

A company which is solvent, established, reliable, and with good customer support is important, with preference for an American manufacturer. I plan on trying to home demo some of these, but need advice on where to concentrate and expend my efforts.

These are some I'm considering, and additional suggestions are welcome:
Pass Labs XA200.5
Boulder 1050 Monoblocks
Halcro DM78
Spectral DMA 360
Edge NL Sig One
Hovland Stratos

Thank you,
Rob
rtn1
Hello Rob,

You may want to add the BAT 600se mono-block amps to your list. I believe they could easily fill all of your requirements. Boy would I love to be able to afford a pair of Isis!
Good luck and enjoy your search.

Best,

Tom
I would looking into the new Berning monos (Quad Z)...I am auditioning next month. If you are looking at Boulder, perhaps Gryphon Coliseum or Antileon Signatures...both full Class A. Good luck.
Email user Branimir - he went through many solid state power amps with his Isis and may offer you a valuable advice.
Zdravo, here's an update: I've got the Karan Acoustics M 1200 monoblocks. More info to come...

For now:
1) Dual monoblock design with balanced circuit and power.
2) Over 2kw into 4 ohms.
3) First 75% of power is class A.
4) Each weighs 167 lbs.
5) Stays on 24/7 - at idle, consumes a few hundred watts and measures 91.8 F at the heat sinks.

Hvala for all the recommendations and help.
Rob