I'm looking to buy a new/used Stereo amp for my mains. I want something I can grow my system around (ie, enough wattage for future speakers). I'd also like to buy a new dedicated cd player. Budget for each piece is probably $300-500, but I might spend more if it's warranted.
The pre-amp I'll be using for now is an HK AVR 235. The speakers are Meadowlark Swifts. I am looking at getting either some B&W 704s or B&W CM7s if I can get to hear them. Speaker cables are Audioquest Bedrock and AQ Copperhead for interconnects.
The system will be mostly for music, but also for movies, hence the 7.1 receiver (will get changed out as well... but later) and my shopping at larger B&W speakers. The Swifts are great for music, but they don't have quite enough presence for loud movies IMO.
I've been looking at used Rotel RB-1070s on the Gon and just about had one for $300, but someone beat me to it. I probably want to stick with Solid State or maybe a hybrid, so does anyone have any suggestions for where else I might look in this price range?
Well... music could be better. I think it could use a little more depth and transpency. I really don't think it's my Meadowlarks either. They're pretty sweet. I've tried different positioning (space from wall, toe-in, etc) I'm thinking it's my source first and amp/pre second. The whole HT thing won't take shape for a couple years probably. Maybe sooner, but it's definitely going to remain a stereo for now.
I stopped by a local hifi tonight and they just acquired a flawless looking Anthem MCA 2 (200 x 2)... everything I can read about it says it's a killer amp. It's going for $450. Very tempting as it's something I could likely grow with.
They also have a basically brand new demo Benchmark DAC1 that might be able to open up my system some... considering I'm using an Onkyo 6 disc DVD/CD as my source. It's going for $750.