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Originally Posted by dreamwhisper /img/forum/go_quote.gif
FallenAngel, is the Dynalo the same as the Gilmore Lite?
How about the GS-1?
Does it go well with AD2000's
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I don't know the exact differences, but they're quite similar. If I recall, I bought all the parts for a Dynalo three years ago for about $100, not counting the case, pot, jacks, etc.
For $1,400, you could commission a Dynamid, or a Gilmore Reference. That's a balanced and bridged Dynalo. Even if you don't have a balanced source or cans, you could just run it bridged which (in my opinion) gives you most of the benefit of running balanced. You can also bridge and balance most other DIY amps, if that interests you.
As for tube amps, the average OTL will struggle with an inefficient low impedance load. Tube amps with output transformers designed to drive low impedance loads will do fine. The problem there is that quality output trandsformers will run $150-$300+ each. You can get $500 into those without even buying another part. That's why you'll see so many OTL designs for headphones - that is to keep prices down.
Anyhow, be sure to consider the DIY/custom angle. Your dollar will go further and DIY designs are, in my opinion, terrific. They're picked over by a small army of knowledgeable geeks who then build them. If there are any problems with the design, they get hammered out. Commercial designs don't get nearly as much scrutiny. DIY designs tend to be more innovative, too, since most spring from a creative impulse rather than trying to design something that will appeal to the most people and sell the most units. Don't get me wrong, there are excellent commercial offerings, but DIY is decidedly more adventurous. I like that in my gear.
Also, be sure to consider used amps. You do not have to buy new and a mess of great used amps turn up all the time. You can save 50% or more buying used. Don't worry too much about warranties, etc. Most amps in that price bracket are made very well and should be reliable for years. Also consider that the price of a repair would likely have a lower total cost than buying new.
