Still amp confused but getting closer
txcoastal1
Posts: 13,314
Searched new and used (scared of used...warranties) Budget $1500-$2500
Integra DTA-70.1 and Sunfire TGA 7201 any other suggestions
Integra DTA-70.1 and Sunfire TGA 7201 any other suggestions
2-channel: Modwright KWI-200 Integrated, Dynaudio C1-II Signatures
Desktop rig: LSi7, Polk 110sub, Dayens Ampino amp, W4S DAC/pre, Sonos, JRiver
Gear on standby: Melody 101 tube pre, Unison Research Simply Italy Integrated
Gone to new homes: (Matt Polk's)Threshold Stasis SA12e monoblocks, Pass XA30.5 amp, Usher MD2 speakers, Dynaudio C4 platinum speakers, Modwright LS100 (voltz), Simaudio 780D DAC
erat interfectorem cesar et **** dictatorem dicere a
Desktop rig: LSi7, Polk 110sub, Dayens Ampino amp, W4S DAC/pre, Sonos, JRiver
Gear on standby: Melody 101 tube pre, Unison Research Simply Italy Integrated
Gone to new homes: (Matt Polk's)Threshold Stasis SA12e monoblocks, Pass XA30.5 amp, Usher MD2 speakers, Dynaudio C4 platinum speakers, Modwright LS100 (voltz), Simaudio 780D DAC
erat interfectorem cesar et **** dictatorem dicere a
Post edited by txcoastal1 on
Comments
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If you know even a little bit about amps and what to look for in a used amp, I would strongly recommend going that route. It will save you a boatload of money, and you can potentially upgrade to the next tier of amps at the same time you spend less. Think of getting a $2000 amp for $300, e.g. the 250W/ch Parasound HCA 2200 II. The majority of quality amps can easily last 20+ years if well taken care of. Avoid any amps in high humidity areas, or from people who smoke and have pets.
Your best bet is probably Audiogon from users with reasonable feedback. Almost all of their sellers have high quality amplifiers that are in excellent condition, but you will pay a premium. Ebay is another option, but restrict your considerations to sellers with high feedback and a return policy only. The riskiest is Craigslist, as it restricts you to only those places you can drive to, and you have to convince them to let you test it out before you take it with you, and you will need to inspect it thoroughly.
Regardless, I would recommend going 5+2 for a 7.1 setup. You'll get much better sound from your fronts, and on a $2000 budget you can easily do it. Parasound A53 and A23 (lower watt ratings, but high current; able to drive some pretty serious speakers), or A51 and A21 are excellent. So are Rotel RB 1095 + RB 1090, or their new RMB 1575 and RB 1572 (Class
doesn't put out much heat). Older NADs like the silver series are good too, I don't know about their newer lines. Alternatively, go for a Bryston. Unlike any other mfr, they have 20 year warranties on all their amps and the warranties are transferable. I've heard they used to be used by Skywalker Sound, but never confirmed it.
