adcom equipment.....

 Guys, both of you make good points. Mostly, I know that what I am hearing is really due more to the combination with my speakers than the amp itself. I am referring to the single driver speakers that I am using from Decware Audio. So many things I like about these drivers, 'but' there has always been a certain frequency that shouts (in the midrange). With tube equipment, it was tolerable, but now that SS has the floor, there is less forgiveness. After pointing that out, I am willing to say that this little amp is well worth the money. Like I said, the damping factor improved the bass to my ears, and overall, I find a good open presentation. The ummp factor can be had, but mostly at higher volumes. Maybe a bit more break in is to be considered. Only a few hours on the amp so far.
 I must point out one feature of the amp that is cool. It can be set to standby mode, and then if a signal is sensed, it will turn on. No need for a trigger, although that can be used as well. Small thing, but appreciated
 I will be moving on in a couple of months when the larger amp is rebuilt, and that is where I hang my hopes.

Been listening to the amp for a bit now, and I like what I hear. For my ears the sound is more transparent. I wouldn't put it heads and shoulders above the previous tube amp that I had, but it does more things right than wrong. As for the harsh sound I first heard, I have determined that the speakers are more at fault than the amp. The solution was unusual but it works. I had another driver that was being used for bass, being fed by another amp. I disconnected it, and then wired it in series with the original driver. I am now listening to the set up and so far, I like it. The harshness is practically gone. It will take a bit more experimentation, but I feel that the speaker idea is on the right track.

It's a couple of weeks later, and I've sold a few things and acquired a pair of Totem Hawks, as I've mentioned elsewhere on this forum.  I bring it up here because I've currently got the 6002 driving them, and it seems to be doing fine which somewhat surprises me.

The Hawks are apparently a difficult load, and I had the 555SE running them, but was concerned about the driver movement at higher volumes so swapped in the 6002.  It's a fun little amp, though not quite the equal of the 555 SQ wise.  Love the Hawks, btw, I'm going to sell the Rainmakers.

 I have to agree about this little amp. I too, am surprised at the amount it does right. Yes, of course, I have owned better amps and combinations of gear. The real point here is that I have no reservations in the meantime of getting the new amp project that I am in the middle of, done ASAP so I don't have to listen to the small Adcom anymore. I may even keep it around for a garage system. That's not a slam either. It would be great to have something decent for shop time.