2. amps-preamps
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Amp for VA Beethoven

Currently my system consists of a Sunfire Cinema Grand, Anthem AVM-20, Vienna Acoustics Beethoven (Bach surround, Maestro center), REL Storm III etc.

I'm moving to a bigger place and figured I'd take a shot at a 7.1 setup (I have an extra set of Bachs) so I'll need another two channels of amplification for the Beethovens. Despite the 7.1 setup, 99.9% of the listening is stereo. I really enjoy these speakers and have no plans to replace them any time soon. A pre will be added eventually, but I'm in no rush for that either. The Beethovens are a very musical warm speaker, but I don't want them any warmer. For that reason, I'm looking for an amp that is not at all warm or laid back. Budget isn't my greatest concern, but I'm not looking to spend 50% the cost of this whole system either--something in the realm of the surrounding components would be nice. But most importantly, something that will provide a clear improvement over the Sunfire in the current setup and be worthwhile hanging on to when I add a preamp down the road. Thanks for the help.
ultraviolet
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
I think that Bryston is very consistant with what you've spent on the rest of the system. With luck you'll find lightly used in For Sale.

I bought my Conrad Johnson lightly used at just over half retail. At the time I was buying I saw a Rowland Concerto or two and another C-J closely priced. I think it'd be realistic to look for a one or two year old Bryston and money left over in the budget.

Dave
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Yes, I still think the Bryston sounds like what you are after sonically. Also, especially if you are buying used, I believe Bryston still has their 20 year transferrable warranty program......very handy indeed.

Cheers,
John
ultraviolet OP
105 posts
 
Thank you very much. I will look for a good deal on a 4b-sst. I've tried searching on the forums, but can't find a good explanation of the different 4b models. I've come across the 4b-st, 4b-sst and the 4b-sst c. If anyone has any links that might explain this, or would like to offer a quick explanation, I'd really appreciate it.
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