2. amps-preamps
  3. 1267428047

Power amp around $3000 for C-J Classic preamp

I've all but decided that my next preamp will be the Conrad-Johnson Classic, but I'm struggling with ideas for a power amp that would be a good match for it below $3000. I listen almost exclusively to vinyl and the speakers right now are the Totem Acoustic Hawks but will be upgraded in the near future to probably the Vandersteen 3A Sig or possibly VMPS RM-30, but not yet sure. I'm open to both tube, hybrid or solid state, but I'm more inclined toward solid state. Any ideas?
actusreus
tvad
9,467 posts
 
BTW, the Vandy 3A Sigs have a fairly flat impedance curve, which would allow the use of tube amplification if that's of interest to you.

In your $3000 price range, look at used Rogue M-150 or M-180 monoblocks: 150wpc (although at 87dB, the 3A Sig might like even more power), 200k ohm input impedance.
audioconnection
1,015 posts
 
How bout the CJ pre amp or used ARC LS5 or even a used Audible Illusions M3A about 800 bucks and an 100K input Imp ARC 100.2 for 1600 this combo put together should smoke all of what you are talking about for less than 1/2 the price
and Made in USA
Best JR
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Audioconnection, Great recommendation John.

Have you ever heard the old saying "You can lead a horse to water"?
knownothing
1,298 posts
 
"10x rule is oft repeated fallacy"

For the stated output impedance at least. Looks like for tube amps you suggest 100x is a better rule.
actusreus OP
733 posts
 
Ok, so I visited my dealer this weekend and after listening to and speaking with him about Rogue Audio, I have decided to go for the 99 Magnum preamp (output impedance 350 Ohms) and the Stereo 90 amp (input impedance 200k Ohms). Amazing combo and fits perfectly withing my budget.

Thank you all for your advice!
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