x2 on the AD700's. They faired very well at the NJ micro meet against the much more expensive AD2K's, and the K701s.
Of course this does not come close to anything like a Stax phone or the K1000, but you set a very restrictive dollar limit.
If you really have more budget, tvrboy has a great idea. The SR-001 mk 2 is under-appreciated around here, it is a great 'stat SS amp, with both pro and normal bias. Pair it with any used Stax you can find, and for maybe $450 your are in the ball park of "world's best". You're not actually in the game, but you made it inside the park.
Of course this does not come close to anything like a Stax phone or the K1000, but you set a very restrictive dollar limit.
If you really have more budget, tvrboy has a great idea. The SR-001 mk 2 is under-appreciated around here, it is a great 'stat SS amp, with both pro and normal bias. Pair it with any used Stax you can find, and for maybe $450 your are in the ball park of "world's best". You're not actually in the game, but you made it inside the park.
