Unfortunately, it won’t be that easy.
There are really few ready-made recipes in audio, I will try to explain why and how to look for an amplifier for my system.
First of all, you need to understand one thing – in audio there is no one, two, or even 3 parameters that would define the quality of such an amplifier. Neither the class in which the amplifier (A, A, B, D) plays, nor the technique (lamp, transistor, hybrid), nor the power or bandwidth will guarantee the expected effect.
Therefore, you should approach all kinds of rankings or opinions about individual devices with a great distance.
So what will be the best amplifier up to PLN 10,000?
One that will match the rest of the system components.
Each amplifier will behave slightly differently in a different system. Sometimes one for PLN 30,000 will simply be worse than the one used for PLN 5,000 – provided that the used one is properly fitted into the system.
Many theories say that the amplifier should be neutral and add as little as possible from itself. However, if we take 3 seemingly neutral amplifiers – each of them will play a bit differently.
For example, sometimes it will be a better sound at a low volume level.
Another time better bass control.
Yet another time a more weighted diameter.
A more extensive scene.
Better vocal reproduction.
etc., etc.
The class of the device is one thing – of course you have to look for the best designed devices, but the fit with the entire system is even more important.
Without it, we can drown and 50,000 PLN for an amplifier and grind the next 5 years with cables, loudspeakers, acoustics, gadgets and try to mask a mismatch with the rest of the system.
Fit
Therefore, I suggest you look at the topic a bit differently.
The whole system is playing and at the stage of designing / planning this system, we have to think about what our philosophy will be – ie what we will emphasize and what.
a) the nature of the playing will be given mainly by the columns
b) the nature of the playing will be broadcast by an amplifier
c) the nature of the playing will be provided by the source
If we focus on relatively character-playing loudspeakers that focus on the diameter – e.g. Harbeth – we will need an amplifier that will not additionally emphasize, push or sweeten the midrange. We will shake the balance and the presentation will be glued and muddy.
Of course, the whole thing will complement the source and here you should also be careful and careful because adding too much sweets may end up badly.
The situation is completely different in the case of relatively equal / neutral / studio-style speakers – i.e. open with a very faithfully shown diameter. Yamaha NS1000, JBL L100, Tannoy LGM – with VintageThese classics will be a great example here.
Here, an amplifier with a slightly fuller, warmer and averaging character will often work very well. For example, a push pull amplifier on a lamp or a transistor in the A-class of the Pass Labs.
Source
Often underestimated, integrated into an amplifier.
The progress is currently the greatest in digital-to-analog converters. Yes, the transducers mounted in amplifiers can be good, but without good transport, we will not squeeze the maximum potential out of them.
The source is nearly 30% of the system sound. loudspeakers for PLN 10,000, an amplifier for PLN 10,000 and we have a good chance of becoming a misalliance.
Electronics – so the source + amplifier can take the sound of even very inconspicuous speakers to the next level.
I’ve seen this in Kef Carlton’s case.b & amp; in pengiunwhich with really good electronics likegive reimyoThey provided a cosmic sound for their age (about 50 years) and a price (4500-6500PLN in good condition).
On the same day I listened to Klipsch Cornwall 4 (new about PLN 40,000) and this set below just played in a different league (all the whole thing at the price of new Cornwali)
Summation
Considering the above … It is difficult to talk about the best amplifier for any amount.
Apart from the sound criteria and system matching.
Manufacturers today offer many devices that tempt with versatility – e.g. high power, built-in DAC, phono, remote control, BT etc.
Others are tempting with design, backlights or UV indicators – soThey play on sentiment
In my experience, the most simple solutions are the best. A simple single-ended tube amplifier and 3-10W of power are often enough to obtain the highest class sound.
Then we can put together an outstanding system, and the loudspeakers and the source will decide whether it will be extremely universal, spectacularly conveying emotions or a painfully detailed sound.
