On amplifiers, I used Yamaha as an example as a company offering good performing amplifiers for modest cost which are readily available from dealers. Not sure if I'll buy Yamaha though. I love the old school tank like qualities and VU meters of their higher end stereo amps like the AS1100 and AS2100 but not sure the joy goes more than skin deep. The AS201 through to the AS801 seem to pack good performance at their respective price points and are not expensive. I quite like the Cyrus One HD, OK I don't think it sounds better than cheaper alternatives but it is pretty powerful and well featured and has quite a hefty and solid build. And I like the basic compact form factor looks. That's Class D, but I feel a bit more comfortable with that. Weirdly enough, and I know I'm often critical of Paul McGowan and all his bollox spin, I quite like the Sprout 100. It's nicely designed on the outside at least, compact and pretty well featured. ELAC make a promising looking compact amp with impressive speakers which I'd like to check out too.
For speakers I am leaning toward Harbeth M30.1's which sound fabulous to my ears, have lovely retro looks and feel like a quality product. And importantly, they have WAF (Mrs JJB doesn't like the price, but she complimented the looks).
For speakers I am leaning toward Harbeth M30.1's which sound fabulous to my ears, have lovely retro looks and feel like a quality product. And importantly, they have WAF (Mrs JJB doesn't like the price, but she complimented the looks).
