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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
armstrod
498 posts
 
I owned Monarchy SM70 Pro monoblocks, and they were definitely on the warm side for SS amps. They'd have similar power as your MC275, and so would probably drive your Sehrings to similar levels. They're Class A and run hot, but not blazing. I loved them with my Von Schweikert VR-1s, but they were a little noisy with my Druids. The new Mk IIs are supposed to be quieter than the originals I had.

David
tvad
9,467 posts
 
All of the amps I mentioned have an input impedance of 100k Ohms, and will match well with the Calypso preamp's 1k Ohm output impedance. They will all drive your Sehring 703s speakers without any problem.

The Belles 150A Reference is current. The 350A Reference, although apparently out of production, can be serviced by Dave Belles.

The McCormack amps are older models. However, if you can pick up a DNA-1 (or DNA-2) modified by SMc Audio (Steve McCormack), it can be worked on be Steve if it ever requires servicing. He will not service McCormack amps that have not been upgraded by him. Both of these amps are large and heavy, however.
mechans
2,999 posts
 
I second the Conrad Johnson for a warm SS amp. You might also want to try an older Mac, although people have argued that their SS amps are not all that warm, I think they are but to each his own. In any event you should get the bass balance you seek.
loftarasa
171 posts
 
Primare is known for soft tonality - the I21 budget amp being quite dark, the I30 more neutral and of higher transparency but still with a shared house sound.

Similarly, the Exposure 2010 and 3010 both have a non-fatiguing presentation.
nikturner920
144 posts
 
'Warm' and 'Dark' as used in audio are different to me.

Maybe a Sim Audio moon W- 3 or 5? Maybe one of there new amps?

The treble has detail without being etched and emphasized so could call them a touch dark. I wouldn't call them warm though in terms of lush midrange but you have a tubed pre.

I'm running an Aesthetix Calypso with Sim Audio W-6 monos and the combo is great with fantastic bass.
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