Best SS amp in the 1500-2000 Euro range?

[Jakob]

Looking for a power amp with 100-200 W/channel. It will replace a NAD 218. My other stuff is Audio Research LS7 and VT60SE and a Pioneer PDS-06. Would prefer an ARC model but haven't heard their SS amps. Any suggestions?

Thanks: Jakob

[Andyoz]

I guess "best" doesn't exist but I have had success with Bryston 4B SST driving 250Ti's. The smaller 3B SST didn't cut it in the bass though. I'm sure a 4B is in your price range

[chilledspode]

Hi Jakob,

I can't help you with your question but I have one for you, if you don't mind.

I see you are moving away from your 218, and I have been considering moving away from my NAD370 and using it as a preamp with a 218. What are your thoughts on the 218 - the good, and the bad ...

In a fit of silliness I picked up a older Yamaha amp (the 218's are hard to find) which I am waiting to arrive - but I doubt it will out perform my current setup.

Cheers

Mark

[grumpy]

...used/clean ARC 240MkII might fit your requirement, for a bit less.
or the D400MkII if looking for more power. I've heard both sounding quite
nice with "picky"/fullrange speakers.

I've not heard the 150.2 era of ARC amp, so can't comment.

[Bruno GINARD]

Hello

TRy a PLINIUS SA 100 to 103 Class A Amp. Availaible in good condition from 1500 to 2000 €.

I have recently bought a A 100 for my Hartsfield. it's impressive !

Regards

Bruno

[Jakob]

Thank You all for your input!

Andyoz: The Bryston's been in my mind for some time. It seems they are much appreciated. Too much almost, since You barely never se one for sale here in Sweden I'll keep an eye out.

chilldespode: The only amps I've compared the NAD to is an Yamaha PC2602 and ARC VT60SE. The NAD beats the pro Yama on every count except power, and the ARC beats the NAD in the same way. Compared to the ARC (cost 5 times as much as the NAD) the NAD seems powerfull with very distinct bass and midbass, the treble is fine but the higher You go in frequency, the less sweet and more "hard" gets the sound. All compared to the all-tube ARC however. If I hadn't had the ARC I would probably still be very happy with the NAD and it is often a bargain price-wise. I still use it for my LF in different setups and also for my 250ti's and it does a fine job. It's just that when You've heard how good it can sound, it's hard to turn back to the old. I think You'll be happy with it!

Bruno: I'll try and see if I can find one to take a listen to, thanks for the tip!

What about Perraux and Classé? Any thoughts on these?

[chilledspode]

Hi Jakob,

Thank you for the comments and I understand what you are saying - maybe I need to go right on by the 218 to something else, though I have no idea what.... :-)

Cheers

Mark

[Jakob]

chilledspode: It all comes down to how much You are willing to spend. Search the web for more info on what people think of the 218, but in it's own price range I think it's a good candidate. It seems they seldom break according to a service technician I spoke to and that is something to take into consideration as well when You're speaking about amps with 10-15 years of age.
Hopes this helps!

[Andyoz]

Andyoz: The Bryston's been in my mind for some time. It seems they are much appreciated. Too much almost, since You barely never se one for sale here in Sweden I'll keep an eye out.

That's a shame as there is a fairly regular supply of the ST and SST's in the UK. This one on UK eBay will be lucky to fetch £1000. http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Bryston-4Bst-p...d=p3286.c0.m14

I got my mint 2yo 4B SST for £1350 from this UK website. http://www.adverts.hififorsale.com/home.asp

To be honest, the Bryston probably doesn't do anything that different to other quality high powered amps. Although, In my particular room the grip the Bryston has on the 250Ti's is amazing. The 20 year guarrantee is nice but obviously factored into the sale price.

[chilledspode]

jakob:

I have looked around and found a Stereophile magazine comparison of the 208 vs the 218 - very informative, and both were well received though different.

My current integrated NAD370 is really a good amplifier and for the price it will be hard to beat. I think I'll start into learning about amps above the NAD lineup and then see what's out there...

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and good luck in your pursuit - please let us know what you end up with.

Cheers

Mark

[mech986]

Hi Jakob,

Do you have any photos of the PC2602? I've heard of that amp but never seen it. Do you or a friend have it? Does it have any provision for changing the input voltage (220 to 110?).

Could you describe what you found lacking in the Yamaha amp? Was there anything done to the almost 25 year old Yamaha amp to check its operating condition (new caps, rebiased or offset checked, etc)? Thanks!

Bart

[macaroonie]

Jakob don't forget to have a look at Rotel. Plenty to offer in that price range and multi channel types also for if you are bi- amping or active.