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Current production "budget" warm/dark SS amp?

Are there any class A/B solid state amps that are currently in production (or only recently went out of production) that are known for having a warm/dark sound that can be bought used for under about $1500? I used to own a B&K 4420, which I liked quite a bit for its warm/dark sound signature before it died on me. That amp retailed for around $1,100 new but went out of production over a decade ago, I think. The other amp I am thinking of is the Audio Research 100.2, which also went out of production years ago and was known for its "musicality". Are there recent- or current-production solid state amps that are similar to those amps but are NOT Class D, don't cost a fortune, and are not 90+ lb. behemoths?
mcondon

Showing 2 responses by tvad

tvad
9,467 posts
 
You don't mention what speakers or preamp you'll be using, or how much power you require, so only a general recommendation can be made.

First, is the Belles 350A Reference (or 150A Reference). While I don't consider it "dark", I do consider it to be on the warm side of neutral...certainly with forgiving highs. The 350A Reference will run you about $2000 used. The 150A Reference about $1500 used.

Another option would be a McCormack DNA-1 or a DNA-0.5
tvad
9,467 posts
 
All of the amps I mentioned have an input impedance of 100k Ohms, and will match well with the Calypso preamp's 1k Ohm output impedance. They will all drive your Sehring 703s speakers without any problem.

The Belles 150A Reference is current. The 350A Reference, although apparently out of production, can be serviced by Dave Belles.

The McCormack amps are older models. However, if you can pick up a DNA-1 (or DNA-2) modified by SMc Audio (Steve McCormack), it can be worked on be Steve if it ever requires servicing. He will not service McCormack amps that have not been upgraded by him. Both of these amps are large and heavy, however.
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