2. amps-preamps
  3. 1410548274

Refined SS Stereo pwr amps under 10K?

I looking to upgrade from my ARC DS225. considering an Ayre VX-5, what other SS amps under 10k (list price) would provide me great harmonic detail, drive, strong tonal balance and hear deep into the music layers? Yup,I know I'm asking a lot.

The System: Bel Canto DAC3.5MKII with ref power supply and Ref USbB to Spdif converter,(3 separate chassis) via AudioQuest Diamond USB cable, Wireworld Platinum 7 XLR to ML326s Wireworld Platinum 7 XLR to Audio Research DS225, Audience AU24SE speaker cables to Magnepan 3.7i Wired with Synergistic research and Nordost power cords ran to custom power strip incorporating 3 Furutech GTX-D duplexs and one Defender conditioner to a VooDoo power cord to a wall outlet GTX-D
So where do I go to upgrade from the ARC DS225 amp?
Thanks
5560
zd542
5,339 posts
 
One VX-5 is a great choice. Two is even better. A Theta Dreadnaught is another excellent choice. But if you really want your system to open up, get rid of the ML326 first and replace it with something like an Ayre or Aesthetix. Its a great preamp, but it won't allow you to fully hear what a new amp(s) can do. As long as you are not underpowered, a preamp upgrade should make a much bigger improvement in SQ than a new amp.
arh
366 posts
 
Replace your preamp with a Shindo tube preamp. It will totally transform your system. Even there entry level Auriges preamp at about $6000 is a game breaker. I use this preamp and drive a pair of David Berning ZH270 power amps to my 3.6's. If you only want to do power amp change and stay SS then I would recommend the Pass amps in your price range.
Alan
dodgealum
976 posts
 
While I have not heard the DS225 I did own a series of ARC solid state amps (100.2, 150.2, SD135) before moving to a Modwright KWA150SE. In my system it was far superior to the ARC amps. In my system it does all the things on your wish list. Whether it would be a good match for the Maggies and play well with the ML preamp I cannot say. May be worth a look since it comes in within your price range.
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