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Budget would be about $3k, it is tax rebate time, and time to upgrade from ICE :)Looking for Hypex NCore stereo amplifier solution with balanced inputs.
I really like Bel Canto but can't stomach $5k for dual monoblocks (600M).
Or should I wait until next year and save up.
There is nor will there ever be a WAF factor, so I am basically just trying to research right now. Doesn't have to be the most pretty packaging.
__ edit
So far I found a mention of Merrill Taranis, http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/2014/11/merrill-taranis-another-attainable-hypex-ncore-amplifier/
It has a shiny faceplate and I like how it says I can use the reflection capability to check my hair before I head out the door.
I am not a fan of NAD, so that one is out. I don't know if there are ways to build one myself, I am not good at soldering as I have shaky hands.
Also USA companies only. Has to be built in the USA.
Edits: 02/07/16 02/07/16Follow Ups:
Talk to James Romeyn about the NCore NC500. Should be 400 watts into 8 ohm at a lot less than your stated budget.
If you're open to class AB amps as well, there's a new Bryston 4BSST2 (300W) on the 'gon from an authorized dealer for $3.4k ($5k retail).
Do you dislike the products, or the business or both?Anyway, I have the M22 which I think is excellent and meets your specs nearly exactly other than the nameplate.
Its industrial design and physical build is also very nice. The internal heat sink is huge and nicely machined copper or copper coated or something similar. Heavier than I expected, but still compact and cool
I also was looking at the Taranis and this
http://www.tweekgeek.com/acoustic-imagery-atsah-500/
but had an opportunity to buy a demo M22 for about $2000.
Oops: just saw your report about NAD, I guess it was customer service problems, sorry to hear.
Anyway, solid state power amps need very little support---simple and robust---so customer service doesn't seem quite as important in my mind.
Edits: 02/07/16 02/07/16
These might be worth a look
much knowledge and experience with Hyphex Ncore to the point
where it seemed to bother many around here.
"Once this was all Black Plasma and Imagination" -Michael McClure
I connected my Hypex NCore NC400 Bridged mono block class D power amplifiers to my Bricasti M1 DAC and my system sounds terrific. The combination of the Bricasti M1 DAC & the Hypex NCore NC400 bridged power amplifiers mono blocks sound more natural, clearer, have more bass, a lack of noise, excellent dynamics and details. Another layer of sound is presented WITHOUT THE pre-amplifier in the system. The Hypex NCore NC400 bridged mono block class D power amplifiers are highly recommended.
After conversations with Bricasti, Hypex & James (James Romeyn Music and Audio, LLC), we decided to remove the R141 (circuit) from my Hypex NCore NC400 bridged mono blocks, thus lowering gain by 14 dB, requiring 14 dB higher M1 volume setting for same playback level. Bricasti says the goal is to have the M1 CLOSE to 0db front panel attenuation. If you reduce the volume on the M1 DAC, you cause more bit reduction meaning you lose sound quality. When you connect the Bricasti M1 DAC to a power amplifier, you have to balance the M1 DAC to the power amplifier in order to achieve your M1 volume settings CLOSE to 0db. My volume listening range is in the -10 to -25db range depending on the source material.
I purchased the Hypex NCore Class D amps from James Romeyn Music and Audio, LLC (James). He was very helpful answering my many questions and I suggest you contact him for more information on his assembled Hypex amplifiers (he offers 3 models).
http://jamesromeyn.com/#/home-audio-gear/hypex-ncore-nc400-build-service-on-time-or-free-build/
This is my first class D power amplifier and, based on my results, sounds terrific. Of course, everyone has a different opinion on this subject. You never know "how it really sounds", until you listen in your room and system.
In summary, I am thrilled with how good my system sounds . I am hearing details, imaging and bass that I have not heard before. I highly recommend you contact James for information on his Hypex NCore power amplifiers.
What speakers are you using Howgeif .... ?
As requested RE: Sonys Faber Olympica II speakers
I have the Merrill, will let y'all know what I think next weekend.
I won't be enjoying the Super Bowl today but I will be enjoying the bread part of the circus,
Hail Caesar!
300 watts into 8 ohm. I use a 400r to drive, with ease, a set of original AR9s. Open, neutral, great sound stage, plays nice with both tube and SS preamps.
Bullethead
You can also try First One amps developed and assembled by Lazy Cat , those SS amps are AB class , CFA`s , very good sounding , and will cost you lot less $$$$ than those switching Hypex amps .
__
"Art which does not have the appearance of art is true art."
- Old Roman saying -
Banat,
Is there a website for LC's amplifiers or is it all thru DiY ....?
A.Wayne
As I know all goes only thru DIY , but in the mid time L.C.(Andrey Lackner) developed and offered new improved variants of his famous F.O. amp , all based on the same CFA topology .
__
"Art which does not have the appearance of art is true art."
- Old Roman saying -
Thanks Banat ...
The Taranis meets your criteria. I thought it sounded very, very good. I have not heard any of the other NC500 amps.
once Uncle Jacob J. Lew pays me what he owes me I'll consider it.
I anticipate a Hypex solution from Bel Canto, seems to be they make Monos first then develop a S version. Anticipating a 600S but I could be wrong.
thanks a lot for the experience you mentioned with Taranis.
You can buy ready to go kits directly from the Netherlands well within your budget.There doesn't appear to be an board level soldering required. Looks like more of a parts and connector assembly job.
I used to enjoy building Dynakits as a teenager.
edit: regarding country of origin - remember that all Hypex modules are made in the Netherlands. A "US made" implementation may use an American box and wiring. :)
Edits: 02/07/16
Why would NAD be out if they are using off-the-shelf like everyone else??
I had a bad experience with their M series, I bought not one but two SACD players new that didn't work. It was hell to get everything squared away, I would never buy a NAD product after that experience. I don't know if it was B stock or what have you, I am sticking to USA made equipment.
I seem to like Merrill so far. I'll feel around a bit more too. Thanks
Acoustic Imagery sells some mono blocks of the NC500. I don't know how it sounds. Merrill sells a stereo version. Google nc-500 and see what's out there. There's a lot out there.
Jack
I forgot to mention, USA made only.
The modules aren't made in the U.S., but Merril's Taranis claims to be " made in the U.S.". At least the box is. The same is true for Bel Canto and all the other U.S. companies.
Jack
I can confirm that Merril amps are made in the USA.
yes, I know. I'd rather support local communities here in the USA.
Even if the modules are outsourced no matter, it is something to be said about working within our borders for the most part. At least that is my ideology.
http://merrillaudio.net/taranis.html
The meters turns off if you wish.
Jack
Thanks, there is a very cool YouTube video, that sold me on it.
I appreciate the help. This seems to be very good.
Reminds me of my old Aiwa cassette deck back in the 80s.
enjoy.
Jack
It was nice, the meters didn't look as good as this though,
Try not to make my eyes pop out of their sockets, I'll try ;)
(nt)
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