[cody69]

Need a C&C amp to power two bookshelf speakers for music in my dad's shop. Source will most likely be a CD player, possibly an AirportExpress if wifi reaches that far. Amp will be driving Danny's GR X-LS 2-way speakers, 87db sensitivity.

If I had time, I would build and send him a TPA3116/or/3110 amp, but he's looking for something soon. Budget for this is +/- $150.

Since this is going in a shop, sound quality is not the main attribute; more durability as it will likely be left on for periods of one or more days at a time. Parts Express has a number of amps that likely could fit the bill, guidance and advise will be greatly appreciated.

[Wind Chaser]

Since this is going in a shop, sound quality is not the main attribute; more durability as it will likely be left on for periods of one or more days at a time.

Given your criteria, anything that fits your budget should do just fine, but I wouldn't buy anything too old, as you're more likely to experience a problem with it.

[srb]

Without knowing the volume requirements for your space and whether the application is near, mid or far field, on the plus side of your budget ($199 shipped) one to consider might be the Audioengine N22 which is 22W/channel.  It has an auto power-saving idle mode and a 3-year warranty.

There are two inputs, but there is no input selector, so if using both inputs the other source would have to be stopped or muted.  No remote, just a volume control knob.

30-day audition trial when purchased direct from Audioengine.

Steve

[charmerci]

I usually go to a local thrift shop and buy a sony/denon/etc. receiver for $30. If it doesn't work, you can just return immediately for a refund.

[jarcher]

Yamaha R-S201 2 channel receiver : $149. Pretty high on Amazons list (#7) and many positive reviews (536 / 637), so unlikely to be a total piece of junk.

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S201BL-2-Channel-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B00F0H88SY/ref=sr_1_6_m?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1454816857&sr=1-6&keywords=yamaha+receiver

[Mojo Warrior]

http://www.amazon.com/DROK-Bluetooth-Amplifier-Wireless-Receiver/dp/B013AIQWLE/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1454906619&sr=1-1&keywords=drok

$32 Class D 32watts/channel  delivered in two days. Mine sounds great in the office. Fits in the palm of your hand and has Bluetooth.

[I.Greyhound Fan]

Get a Dayton DTA-120 amp from parts express.   I have the older DTA=100a paired with some Monitor Audio S1 speakers.  Sounds great with good dynamics, punchy bass with excellent air and transparency and a wide sound stage.  It really responds well to a decent DAC or CD player.  The only issue may be volume.  If he wants to play very loud with those speakers you will want a more robust amp.  The 120 amp is rated at 60wpc at 10% THD.   Use able power is more like 35wpc

http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dta-120-class-t-mini-amplifier-60-wpc--300-3800

Check out local pawn shops as some one suggested.  I have seen some good receivers for good prices.  You never know what you can find.

[cody69]

Really appreciate these responses, these have expanded my search sphere considerably, which is good.
Thanks for all your suggestions -- now to do more homework and make a decision, then pull the trigger.

[Doublej]

It might be above your price point but over time there have been a few pro amps that people have raved about...Crown, Behringer, QSC if my memory serves me correctly.

[mcgsxr]

If a power amp will do it, yes the Crown XLS 1500 would be a great choice.  I enjoy mine quite a bit.  I imagine that on the Craigslist/Kijiiji side one could be found for the stated budget.

[OzarkTom]

it is real tough to find a good deal on the 1500. Most used ones are 250-350.
But I did find one steal for $125.

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/msg/5438169905.html