Transaparency, Dynamics, warm "tube like" sound, built like a tank and runs suprisingly cool.

Wish the looks were more like the current B&K gear

I agree completely with the previous reviewer. I was using an Adcom GFA-555 MK II, a high current 200W X 2 amp, and replaced it w/the M-200 monos. The soundstage got wider, the sound warmer and "creamy", meaning you can feel the texture of the strings, the yearning in the voices, and so on. Pinpoint accuracy of the instruments within the stage, and exceptional dynamics are present. I've got all the accoutriments of a very refined amplifier without the high price tag, for a decadently satisfying listening experience.

Similar Products Used:

Adcom GFA 555 MK II

This was the top of the line B&K amp years back. Became relatively famous after Sam Tellig gave it a RAVE review in Stereophile saying it pretty much ascended to the level of much higher priced solid state gear without the cost; in its day, it was around 1900 or so new which was quite a deal for a pair of 200 watt monoblocks. Sam said it had "transparency in spades" and "none of that mosfet mist" you saw in lessor mosfet designs. Of course, a month later he went berserk over the Adcom 300 watt monoblocks thus negating a bit of the impact of the B&K review. That's just Sam and his style; he really hit it right with his B&K review...
I have owned the M200 for about 8 years now and still think it is one of the best sounding amps for the money, especially on the used market where you can typically find it for around 800-1000. It is extremely smooth sounding and very refined for such a high wattage amp. It is very transparent indeed, considering... It is amazing how "tube like" it sounds without any of the tube hassles. It provides very palpable imaging and the soundstage is very wide but not quite as deep as some higher priced units. The bass has good definition and the treble NEVER sounds transistor - like. It just sounds so much more refined then it has a right to.

One recommendation is to run a tube preamp; I think this is one of the best compromises in audio. A high quality tube preamp does wonders for transistor amps of any kind. I am using the now discontinued Cary Audio SLP-70 preamp which is a GREAT product and extremely open and lovely sounding, especially if it comes with the outboard power supply and TKD stepped attenuator.

If you are in need of some power without the harshness and prefer a refined seamless sound with the capability to sound very gutsy if necessary, keep an eye out for the B&K M200 Monoblocks.

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