AudioCircle

Audio/Video Gear and Systems => All Solid State => Topic started by: kbuzz3 on 13 Aug 2018, 12:56 pm

Title: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: kbuzz3 on 13 Aug 2018, 12:56 pm

Hello all

I’m looking for a used cosmetically challenged basic budget amp to power a third vintage system which will be fronted by various tube pre-amps (mostly vintage) fronted by a vintage 15ohm LS35/a’s.  I’m looking for something that has that subjective musicality we chase in this hobby.  Trying to keep the budget less than $500 or even less but dont know if it can be done.   Historically the go to budget recommend was adcom but I have not heard one in 15 years and did not like the 555 when I did.  I would welcome any suggestions for sleepers, particularly of 70-90's more mass market amps of which I don’t know much about like Yamaha. Here’s my short list of used amps but not sure if I they fall within budget .

Monarchy
Bryson 2b
AVA
odyssey
belles
Forte

Thanks in advance for any suggestions

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 13 Aug 2018, 04:26 pm

For sure look for a used AVA, check his web site often for used gear.  But also consider a used Parasound HCA, NAD, Rotel.  There are a few of these on audiogon right now.

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: WGH on 13 Aug 2018, 05:12 pm

The Adcom GFA-535 was their best sounding amp and can be found on eBay for $100 - $150. I gave my 535 to a friend and it still works perfectly, they are built like tanks.

Of all the amps you mention I would lean toward the AVA and Odyssey with the Odyssey having the slightly warmer musical sound in the $500 range. AVA electronics have been slowly evolving to a more refined warmer (compared to early AVA electronics)  musical presentation.

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: rollo on 13 Aug 2018, 07:12 pm

 Foe your use, Rotel, Hafler, NAD, Pioneer and CJ


charles

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: thunderbrick on 14 Aug 2018, 12:01 am

I'm about to list a Moscode 300 hybrid amp on the Trading Post...

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: meby on 14 Aug 2018, 12:41 am

I own a Belles 150a and it maybe close to $500 if you are lucky.  You may also want to look at Sonographe by CJ.

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 14 Aug 2018, 12:51 am

I have seen a Belle's Hot Rod 150a for around $500 before on Agon.  Not the most detailed amp but it has a nice warmer sound.  I have a friend that has one that he does not use any more.  I will see if he wants to sell it.

Larry

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: S Clark on 14 Aug 2018, 01:25 am

The old Soundcraftsmen amps were powerful with excellent bass control.... and they're cheap.  Often less than $200.  I've got one in the closet as a backup for my Moscode. 200 watts/ch into 8 ohms
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Soundcraftsmen-PCR800-Mosfet-Stereo-Phase-Control-Power-Amplifier/323384768144?hash=item4b4b3bf690%3Ag%3AM7sAAOSw5IFbMbw%7E&_sacat=0&_nkw=soundcraftsmen+amplifier&_from=R40&rt=nc&_trksid=p2499334.m570.l1311.R4.TR9.TRC2.A0.H1.Xsoundcraftsmen.TRS0

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: Chico Jim on 14 Aug 2018, 01:58 am

Yamaha MX-630, I love mine!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=183388)

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: luckyguy on 14 Aug 2018, 07:01 am

Try a vintage Yamaha B-2.  Bought mine for 400 back in the day.  You will not want for anything.

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: drmike on 16 Aug 2018, 10:40 am

hello,
I have a dynaco 400 modified by ava to an omega star then further modified by chuck cocci pf Brockton, mass. to a dual mono amp in the dynaco chassis. two toroidal transformers, conservstive 160 watts/ch. $250 plus shipping from 03034.
thanks,
drmike

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: OzarkTom on 16 Aug 2018, 01:50 pm

Also look at that new Burson Bang amp for $600. Email them and you might get the 20% off sale. Get the V6 classic opamp with it, it would be great for LS3?5a speakers.

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: kbuzz3 on 30 Aug 2018, 01:52 pm

I want to thank everyone for the responses....I’ve scored a Yamaha m2 and belles model 2 locally.  I’ve oaired the m2with my vintage pilot pre amp and it sounds fantastic.   What a great amp....powerful and smooooooth with plenty of detail... very happy. 

No time for the belles yet..but nice to go SS For a change

Title: Re: Basic power amp recommendation: <$500
Post by: wushuliu on 30 Aug 2018, 04:46 pm

http://www.thevintageknob.org/yamaha-M-2.html