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Amp upgrade from Bryston 4B

I currently have Thiel 3.6s main speakers driven by an older Bryston 4B amp that has been a good match. I have been considering upgrading the Bryston 4B amp to used Bryston 7B mono blocks(?) However, the Bryston 7B amps have had mixed on-line reviews. Any other recommended amp upgrade recommendations in the $5K used range that would be a good match for the current Thiel 3.6 speakers and potential future Thiel 3.7 speaker upgrades?

OTHER EQUIPMENT: I am setting up a 5.1 surround system with an existing Rotel 985 5 ch amp to drive Thiel SCS4 center and Higherplane 1.2 rear surround speakers. I am currently using an Outlaw Audio 995 processor in bypass mode for 2.1 stereo listening.
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mcloughlin
20 posts
 
I upgraded to a Classe ct 2300, 300 into 8 / 600 into 4, and was surprised how much of an improvement it was over my previous amp, classe ca2200 not subtle. I too plan on upgrading from my current 3.6 to 3.7s. Main improvement in the upper mid and highs less etched more smooth no compression. I also noticed a little more bottom end punch. The amp does not run out of juice and for me makes the 3.6s better or allows them to be better. I think the moral of the story is that Thiels love power. I have seen them used for about 5k
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
I would upgrade to Class A solid state. Pass Labs, Accuphase, etc. The difference is not subtle.

I'm going to move out of 4B-land (I have the SST model)and into a Class A amp myself. The Bryston is good but not spectacular.
rlwainwright
1,901 posts
 
The Spectron is a great amp, good recommendation!

-RW-
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
Spectron...looks interesting. But, it can't be better than a Class A amp, true?
hasse
230 posts
 
"I would upgrade to Class A solid state. Pass Labs, Accuphase, etc. The difference is not subtle."

Dave, have you heard both Bryston and Pass XA? I would be very curious to hear how they compare.
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