[_scotty_]

Does anyone know of any high-powered (300+Wpc@4ohms) amps at the $1000 price point that just perform well beyond that price category?

Dear 8thnerve,Check the thread on the Carver ZR series amps on this
forum,http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=4782
I also used to own a pair of MGIII, these guys are inefficient and exhibit  progressive dynamic compression above 90db or so do to the single ended magnetic drive.They will play just so loud before the compression sets in then it sounds like you need more power. When more power is applied they don't get any louder or more dynamic sounding. I have successfully driven them with a high current low power amp designed by Stan Warren.The amp was a Superphon SA120. They sounded very good as long as I stayed within their dynamic limitations.

[JCC]

I own one, and it is fabulous. You can read all about it on AudioCircle and AudioAsylum.

The megabucks amplifiers are not as good, and you buy a yacht with the difference in cost.

[audioengr]

How about Adcom GFA555? Maybe not 'audiophile' quality, but they don't suck. I hooked one of my old ones up the other night, and it wasn't too shabby. Yes, they can be bright and edgy with the wrong associated equipment, particularly some speaker cables.

Try the Adcom GFA-585.  One of the best if not the best amp Adcom ever made.  You can get them on ebay for $500-$600.  With mods, this thing is unbeatable.

[jqp]

I own one, and it is fabulous. You can read all about it on AudioCircle and AudioAsylum.

The megabucks amplifiers are not as good, and you buy a yacht with the difference in cost.

which amp do you have? - there were so many mentioned before your post

[Dmason]

Hmmmmm.

I guess that leaves the Carver Professional ZR series!!