Looking for a new amp.

Buke9

My Adcom GFA-555 right channel has died and looking for a new amp. Will be powering a pair of LSi15’s with a Schiit Freya as a pre amp and Yggdrasil as Dac and a cheap turntable. I had a pair of Schiit Vidars on order but after a month did not ship so cancelled the order. I’ve got about $1500 to spend on the amp. Can’t be bigger than the Adcom as I have to take apart my table to get it out. I would like something on the warm side as Freya is a bit on the bright side but still looking at tube rolling just haven’t had the time .

Clipdat

Shame about the production delays on the Vidars. I just checked their site and they're still quoting 10-15 days before shipping. I guess they continued taking orders during the delay and now they're probably back ordered. Too bad, as they would match aesthetically (and maybe audibly) with the other Schiit gear that you already have.

Since your budget is pretty high, you might consider getting the amp serviced and upgraded from Big Sky Audio: http://bigskyaudiomt.com/index.php?pr=Audio

Even after the full upgrade cost of $549 plus shipping both ways, you'd still be coming in well under budget, and giving new life to an amplifier that you're already familiar and (hopefully) happy with. Just something to consider.

A well cared for used B&K might give you that warmth that you're looking for. I'll have to defer to others for used amp suggestions that have a warm tonal quality, as this isn't an area that I know a ton about.

Regarding the Freya and tubes, keep us updated on what direction you end up going in! I just recently purchased the Saga and I'm starting a small collection of 6SN7 tubes myself.

FestYboy

Used NAD M series?? Might take a little hunting to find one in your price range. Or one of their big boy Power Envelope amps... They should be the warm sound you're looking for.

mrbiron

Order the Aleph in the flea market.

Buke9

Thanks for the replies. Nad is definitely on my list. Fixing the Adcom is a option hadn’t considered thanks for that and upgrading it in the process is also interesting.The Aleph looks like everyone loves it . Haven’t had much experience with power amps as mostly before just used receivers so this helps me get a idea of what is out there to look for. I’ve been more into headphones as of late so haven’t spent much time looking at 2ch stuff and all the decent shops have moved out and all we have is Best Buy Magnolia. If I find some smoother tubes for the Freya I’ll pass that on to you there is a pretty good discussion on Head-Fi on rolling the Freya.
Thanks again.

gp4jesus

Consider Big Sky audio in Montana. SteveB had his Adcom 585 "warmed over" there. Had raved to me many times "$ well spent!"

dhart86

I have a nice McCormack amp available for sale.

http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649409516-mccormack-dna-05-deluxe-edition-power-amplifier/

Buke9

Someone has suggested Big Sky and that is for sure a option .
Heard McCormack amps mentioned on another forum and yours looks to be in great condition as I’m not opposed to getting used as the Adcom was used.
Have also been looking at some B&K amps as some are touting them to have a tube like sound and that is somewhat appealing to me . Have also found Stratos amp by Odyssey that also looks good but would take all the budget.
Really appreciate the suggestions from all on this and anyone else feel free to add some more.

kharp1

I'd take a serious look at the Usher that's currently for sale in the flea market. Marvin is a good guy, and, got a feeling it won't hang around too long. You hardly ever see them come up for sale.

Buke9

Thanks will have a look see.

steveinaz

I'm taking a HARD look at the Parasound 2250v2. My HCA-1500 is 15+yrs old now.

MrBuhl

dhart86 wrote: »

I have a nice McCormack amp available for sale.

http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649409516-mccormack-dna-05-deluxe-edition-power-amplifier/

Just IMO, for $770 you will be hard pressed to find a better amplifier than this one, and it's pretested by a long-time Polkie to not have any issues. I wouldn't call it warm, but it's not bright or clinical either, it's what Goldilocks referred to as "just right". Far under your budget, but better than any new amp you're going to get for $1500, again, in my humble opinion.

dhart86

MrBuhl wrote: »

dhart86 wrote: »

I have a nice McCormack amp available for sale.

http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649409516-mccormack-dna-05-deluxe-edition-power-amplifier/

Just IMO, for $770 you will be hard pressed to find a better amplifier than this one, and it's pretested by a long-time Polkie to not have any issues. I wouldn't call it warm, but it's not bright or clinical either, it's what Goldilocks referred to as "just right". Far under your budget, but better than any new amp you're going to get for $1500, again, in my humble opinion.

I would have to agree and....thank you Mr. Buhl,
however MY McCormack is no longer available

bikerboy

My pass Aleph would be a fine choice.

Jaybeez

I’m getting ready to sell a Plinius 9100.

Mr_Hz

I have a brand new Parasound 2250v2 275watt (8ohms) that I'm considering selling. Bought it a little quick, and then the Parasound Halo 21's went on sale. Would consider ~$900 + shipping +/-... haven't even cracked the box on this black unit. List is close to $1400, and AA was selling around $1k.

If interested at all... PM me and let's see what we can work out as far as price + shipping. Again the amp hasn't even been taken out of the box, powered up. Recent purchase.