My 1976 PL 400 had some output transistors and caps replaced a few years ago
and I have been happy. Recently an unpleasant sound and smell was emitted from the 400 indicating another trip to the shop for caps and transistors. Soon it will be
totaly restored, but at what price? I already dumped $200 in it, and the unit is only
worth around $400. I am currently using the 400 to power my MG2 pans, along
with a 1966 Marantz 7T Preamp, Rega 2.5 w/Dynavector 10x5. Not super high end
gear but very nice sound.
The pans are power hungry and a pal suggested that I consider a high power
sound reinforcement amp like a used Crest or Crown. He says design
improvements make these amps as clean and transparent as the used audiophile
amps at Audiogon. Is this true?
I have a limited budget of around $500.
High power transistor amps are not cheap, even used, on Audiogon and 4-600
watt models are scarce. I seem to remember a high watt Audio Research
transistor amp from 30 years ago. I am hard pressed to think of good options.
Many of you have audiophile knowledge here and I trust your opinions.
Suggestions please? Thanks for your time...
Ray