To make a long story short: one month ago I changed my source components (Theta Digital). The new source is a Meridian G91.
Since the G91 has an integrated preamp I decided to trade in my current amplification (aging Classe CP60/CA300) for a power amp.
Now comes the tough part: I have two options - Balanced Audio Technology VK600 SE and Accuphase A-60. I listened to both in the same setup and I preferred the Accuphase but...
...the BAT was cold (only powered for 5 minutes before listening) and I was already somewhat tired.
1. I understand the BAT is considered an excellent power amp but loses a lot when driven single-ended (the Meridian does not have balanced outputs amd the BAT has only balanced inputs - adaptors needed!).
2. I like the idea of 600Wpc feeding my speakers (no I'm not listening loud but my Dynaudio Confidence 5 are current-hungry). Will the 120Wpc of Accuphase power drive them?
3. My setup is *polite*, I would like a bit of added "jump factor". Another reason to go for the BAT welding machine (oops: power amp)? Or will the class-A Accu give me the frills&thrills?
4. My wife is an architect - needless to say she prefers the minimalist design of the BAT to the baroque looks of the Accu (not to mention everything else in our audio rack is *black* so the Accu looks are "from a different movie"). Yes I know it's my system, my ears, my home, my castle but I already had to perform CPR on my wife when I told her the price of the beast.
Any opinions? As specified, it's URGENT: less than 24 hours from now I will meet the dealer and take one of the power amps home.
Thanks!
To make a long story short: one month ago I changed my source components (Theta Digital). The new source is a Meridian G91.
Since the G91 has an integrated preamp I decided to trade in my current amplification (aging Classe CP60/CA300) for a power amp.
Now comes the tough part: I have two options - Balanced Audio Technology VK600 SE and Accuphase A-60. I listened to both in the same setup and I preferred the Accuphase but...
...the BAT was cold (only powered for 5 minutes before listening) and I was already somewhat tired.
1. I understand the BAT is considered an excellent power amp but loses a lot when driven single-ended (the Meridian does not have balanced outputs amd the BAT has only balanced inputs - adaptors needed!).
2. I like the idea of 600Wpc feeding my speakers (no I'm not listening loud but my Dynaudio Confidence 5 are current-hungry). Will the 120Wpc of Accuphase power drive them?
3. My setup is *polite*, I would like a bit of added "jump factor". Another reason to go for the BAT welding machine (oops: power amp)? Or will the class-A Accu give me the frills&thrills?
4. My wife is an architect - needless to say she prefers the minimalist design of the BAT to the baroque looks of the Accu (not to mention everything else in our audio rack is *black* so the Accu looks are "from a different movie"). Yes I know it's my system, my ears, my home, my castle but I already had to perform CPR on my wife when I told her the price of the beast.
Any opinions? As specified, it's URGENT: less than 24 hours from now I will meet the dealer and take one of the power amps home.
Thanks!