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
 
You're welcome.

Good luck with whatever direction you go.
unsound
6,115 posts
 
Don't rule out ss.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
03-09-10: Unsound
Don't rule out ss.
Agreed.

If you get to the point of actually purchasing 3A Signature loudspeakers, then email or call Steve McCormack. He's exceedingly accessible. Tell him your budget and ask him what amplification he'd recommend.

He'll set you up with an ideal solid state match for the Vandys.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
...as a point of disclosure, I should make an addendum to my previous post. I am a customer of Steve McCormack's, and I greatly respect his work and attention to customer satisfaction.

I have heard his reference system on which he voices all his products and mixes his recording projects. He uses Vandy 3A Signature loudspeakers, and his system sounds exceptionally good.

That said, I don't own Vandy speakers despite his recommendation of them, nor do I own McCormack amplification, although I do own an SMc Audio VRE-1 preamp.

OK...all is disclosed.
dre
6 posts
 
I use a cj classic se with a Quad 909.Impedance issues are not a problem as I use mit interconnects with impedance matching.Speakers are sonus faber grand piano homes.This is avery musical,punchy combination.The quad is a bargain.
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