I recently purchased some used HT3's (thanks BRM!) and a Manley Shrimp preamp. I'm sure this combo has the potential to make me very happy, if I can find the right amp.
Following are the amps I've tried so far and my nutshell conclusions. No offense intended by blunt judgments, please assume "IMHO" prefix as needed:
- Hafler DH-200. Purchased in 1982 and still ticking. Performed well with B&W DM7mkII for decades, provides some measure of detail and bass extension, but insufficient clarity for HT3s and underpowered at 100 wpc.
- Bel Canto Ref. 1000. Ample power, lots of bass slam, decent midrange, but devoid of high end detail. Is this typical of class D?
- Bryston 4B SST2. Solid build, muscular, well-controlled bass, good detail in mids & highs, but sounds a bit dry, sometimes edgy or aggressive.
- AVA Ultra Double 550. (Thanks for the loan Marty!). Nearly ideal. Mids and highs are nicely resolved and very musical. I only wish it had a bit more bass impact.
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Anyone know of an amp that combines the mid/upper response of the AVA UD550 with the low end of the 4B? With 250 wpc or more? For $5000 or less? Or is this just my version of The Amp that we're all looking for?