Which Solid State Amplifier is Making you Happy?


I'm trying to find a new amplifier to replace a Musical Fidelity A3CR. There are lots of candidates: Rowland 501s, Pass Labs 350.5, Levinson 431/432, H2O, etc. What are people using and what has been a good sonic investment? I'm currently driving B&W N803s, so it's a pretty normal load. My MF amp does not offer enough punch or bass control. It flattens out at higher volumes. I'll spend what it takes, new or used. Less than $8K would be nice. All comments welcome.
Peter
pscialli
My Jeff Rowland model 8 with choke power supply still makes me smile after all these years. I recently did a AB with a 501 and IMHO my 8 was just in a different league. Far more resolving and with a much better control of the bass. The 8 also threw a far deaper soundstage and was much sweeter in the highs.
The only problem you will find is finding someone with a choke supply 8 for sale.
I just upgraded from a Krell 400cx to a new Krell EVO 402 and the improvement is very clearly audible and more musical (without any loss of that famous Krell "slam" whatever that is).

good luck.
Hi, I have been watching this thread with some interest. I switched from Musical Fidelity to Blue Circle and I have been extremely happy; so much so that I am trying to work for the company. Blue Circle has two amplifiers that should fit your needs perfectly; the BC 26 MKII is a solid state design and is under 6000 and the BC 202 which is under 6500. Both have more than enough power and will represent a dramatic improvement over the Musical Fidelity. I especially like the BC 202 but it is a hybrid. Check out the Blue Circle web site. I don't know where you are so I can not recommend a dealer in your area.
Guidocorona, their names shall ever be anonymous. What difference does it make? Let us just say they are some of the biggest names in audio. Just use your imagination.
I'm using a Pass Labs X250 to drive a pair of Martin Logan reQuests and could not be happier.

TomDac
MartinLogan Club