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Current production "budget" warm/dark SS amp?

Are there any class A/B solid state amps that are currently in production (or only recently went out of production) that are known for having a warm/dark sound that can be bought used for under about $1500? I used to own a B&K 4420, which I liked quite a bit for its warm/dark sound signature before it died on me. That amp retailed for around $1,100 new but went out of production over a decade ago, I think. The other amp I am thinking of is the Audio Research 100.2, which also went out of production years ago and was known for its "musicality". Are there recent- or current-production solid state amps that are similar to those amps but are NOT Class D, don't cost a fortune, and are not 90+ lb. behemoths?
mcondon
muzikat
887 posts
 
Naim has been said to be dark. It runs on class A B
tvad
9,467 posts
 
You don't mention what speakers or preamp you'll be using, or how much power you require, so only a general recommendation can be made.

First, is the Belles 350A Reference (or 150A Reference). While I don't consider it "dark", I do consider it to be on the warm side of neutral...certainly with forgiving highs. The 350A Reference will run you about $2000 used. The 150A Reference about $1500 used.

Another option would be a McCormack DNA-1 or a DNA-0.5
gslone
274 posts
 
Out of production, Conrad Johnson MF2250 would be my first choice. The "A" version will be a little more expensive, but still under $1500.00, and are easy to find. The MF2250 also has two bigger brothers for consideration.
The ARC is one fine amp.. they' usually list for 1600-1900, but don't come around very often. Both retain their value well, plus you'll always get good support from both companies.
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