Solid State Amp Suggestions for Strads

[mbovaird]

I'm thinking of adding a pair (or stereo single) of SS amps to the mix. I love my 2301's, but sometimes, I like the control and quickness of a solid state amp - especially with certain types of music. I'm looking for some suggestions on which SS amps to pair with the Strads. Thanks, Mike.

[o0OBillO0o]

Originally Posted by mbovaird

I'm thinking of adding a pair (or stereo single) of SS amps to the mix. I love my 2301's, but sometimes, I like the control and quickness of a solid state amp - especially with certain types of music. I'm looking for some suggestions on which SS amps to pair with the Strads. Thanks, Mike.

Interesting.. Can use the C1000t for the MC2301 and the C1000p with say Classe CA M600? Use an elaborate speaker switch to fight the "lazy monster" ?

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[mbovaird]

I'm not sure I want to introduce any more items in the signal path....so a speaker switch is unlikely. Interesting idea and theoretically, it should work. But first things first....

[jfray]

What about the MC601's......

[mbovaird]

Originally Posted by jfray

What about the MC601's......

Absolutely! I've also considered: Bryston (not sure which one), pass xa series (160/200), Krell 402e, boulder1060, Classe CAM-600, etc.

[metaphacts]

Originally Posted by mbovaird

I'm thinking of adding a pair (or stereo single) of SS amps to the mix. I love my 2301's, but sometimes, I like the control and quickness of a solid state amp - especially with certain types of music. I'm looking for some suggestions on which SS amps to pair with the Strads. Thanks, Mike.

Putting on my FineSounds hat I would suggest a pair of ARC DS450M or McIntosh 601s. Of course a Sonus faber Musica works well too but if I understand the nuance of your request you are looking for more power than that

Some others which have provided exceptional solid state experiences over the years include:

Nagra
Goldmund
Pass Labs
Naim
Moon
Boulder
Accuphase

I'm sure there are many more but that should give you a good list from which to start.

[mbovaird]

Thanks Bill! The Strads are truly incredible. Experimented over the past couple of weeks by putting my family room amp (Classe CA-2300) on the Strads and I got a totally different sound. Not better, just different. When I'm in the mood for full and lush, on go the 2301's. When I want quick and controlled, on went the Classe. I like Pass, but I'm concerned they may be too similar to the 2301's (which isn't a bad thing.....but I'm going for a little variety). SS amps are also good for short listening sessions.

[vintage_tube]

The Bryston 14BSST² PRO -- 600 watts, reasonably priced, great amplifier. SS game over.

I've heard Boulder on Adias -- and at RMAF and have never been impressed (the audition w/Adias had too many variables to determine if it was the amps or overcooked room). With Pass amps you'd need synergy with their pre IMO.

Best

Bob

[jfray]

Originally Posted by mbovaird

Absolutely! I've also considered: Bryston (not sure which one), pass xa series (160/200), Krell 402e, boulder1060, Classe CAM-600, etc.

MC601



Bryston 7B SST



Krell 402e



Boulder 1060

[mbovaird]

Originally Posted by vintage_tube

The Bryston 14BSST² PRO -- 600 watts, reasonably priced, great amplifier. SS game over.

I've heard Boulder on Adias -- and at RMAF and have never been impressed (the audition w/Adias had too many variables to determine if it was the amps or overcooked room). With Pass amps you'd need synergy with their pre IMO.

Best

Bob

Thanks Bob. Uhmmm....how's that new preamp?