You guys have pretty well convinced me that my Onkyo TX-SR 800 is a good front end for my system, but I would like to dip my toe into higher-end stuff without spending a fortune. I thought I might get a good used 200 (or so) watt stereo power amp to drive my M60's. When I listen to music, I pretty much like the Onkyo's "pure mode" in 2 channel stereo, even though it cuts out the sub.

Anyway, the following amps are up for auction right now on Ebay, in some instances, particularly the Adcom 555 II, there are multiple units to choose from. What does the group think of the following amps, and how much would you pay?

Adcom GFA 555 II, 5500, 5800, 5802
Onkyo Integra M-504
Parasound HCA 1200, 1500a
Yamaha M-80, M-70
Phase Linear 400

You guys are great, Thanks again.

Mark

I dunno if i would go for power as much as sound...

Sure the Phase linear will blow your socks off. I have a Phase Linear 700B (which is broken) rated at 350 wpc i think. But i dont think theres anything special about it. Maybe even watch for some used stuff by SIM or Mcintosh or Rotel or something.

I'd look at Rotel as well. Search Ebay and audiogon.com for the RB-1070, RB-1080, or even the RB-991. I have the 1070 driving my M60's, and it's wonderful.

I recently bought a used Phase Linear 200. I think it's really an awesome piece of work. I like the sound a whole lot better than my vintage HK - but it also has more power, so not apples-to-apples. For $100, I consider it a bargain.

If you do go phase linear, and you are a bit handy - I would replace the phono jacks and power filter capacitors. Total cost of supplies (if you buy the good capacitors) should be less than $50. That's about all you need to "refurb" it if everything else is OK.

I really like the looks of the 400, and my experience with the 200 has been good enough, that if I ever have the need for more power or can get one cheap (<$150) I'll probably pick one up. Opening the thing up really shows that these things were built like tanks and designed to last. It seems to me that they were also designed to be repaired easily in case of failure as well - which I find nice in today's world of "if it breaks I throw it away and buy a new one."

.. just my 2 cents

designed to be repaird easily.. sure..

good luck finding some of the parts though!