[GordonFreeman]

I am looking for an amp for $1000 or less to match my 650s. I would prefer it to have 2 switchable inputs if possible but SQ is priority one. I have searched hi and low and a few cane up, the GS-1, GS Solo, LD Mk V. I would love any input you can spare on synergy or other recommendations. I like jazz mostly with a little of everything mixed in.

Thanks

 

[Sceptre]

I can only vouch for the Graham Slee Solo MC. It has never left me feeling wanting when at home. Even with the Duet output, I still long for the Solo sound.

Strongly recommend a trial.

 

[Penchum]

Quote:

Originally Posted by GordonFreeman /img/forum/go_quote.gif I am looking for an amp for $1000 or less to match my 650s. I would prefer it to have 2 switchable inputs if possible but SQ is priority one. I have searched hi and low and a few cane up, the GS-1, GS Solo, LD Mk V. I would love any input you can spare on synergy or other recommendations. I like jazz mostly with a little of everything mixed in. Thanks

As long as you have a good clean source, the LD MKV sounds like a custom fit in your situation. I have to admit, the dual inputs are a very nice feature that I use way more often than I thought I would. The HD-650s sound excellent with the MKV and seem to have less vial than with my tube amps. The MKV's dual mono design makes it an extreme value at it's price point. You can see in my profile some of the equipment I use my MKV with, and I have not been disappointed in any way with it's performance.

 

[musicman59]

I had the HD650 with the GS-1 with stepped attenuator. I thought it was a great combination. The GS-1 compensate for the HD-650 laidback presentation providing a very nice balanced sound with good bass and a lot of detail.

 

[upstateguy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by GordonFreeman /img/forum/go_quote.gif I am looking for an amp for $1000 or less to match my 650s. I would prefer it to have 2 switchable inputs if possible but SQ is priority one. I have searched hi and low and a few cane up, the GS-1, GS Solo, LD Mk V. I would love any input you can spare on synergy or other recommendations. I like jazz mostly with a little of everything mixed in. Thanks

Hi Gordon

Before anyone can answer that question, they would need to know your source and whether you are interested in an analytical presentation or not.

I have a GS-1 -- 650 combination that sounds very different on each of my 4 sources, DAC-AH, Zhao D2, Constantine USB, Stello DA100.....

USG

 

[3x331m]

Check out the WooAudio 2 (WA2). You can roll the tubes to match your taste.

 

[GordonFreeman]

Source is the HR Micro Dac running usb from my computer. I am looking for 2 inputs so I can run the dac into the amp and also the computer direct for gaming. Like I said though, SQ is most important. As for what I want in sound? I want something dynamic and smooth if thats possible, I dont like a sloppy or boomy base. Thanks for all the replies.

 

[Ricey20]

I use a WA6 with mine and it sounds very good. I'd recommend a tube amp to use with the HD650s.

 

[GordonFreeman]

Black WA6 is purdy sexy. What do you like about the combination?

 

[fl00r]

Quote:

Originally Posted by upstateguy /img/forum/go_quote.gif Hi Gordon Before anyone can answer that question, they would need to know your source and whether you are interested in an analytical presentation or not. I have a GS-1 -- 650 combination that sounds very different on each of my 4 sources, DAC-AH, Zhao D2, Constantine USB, Stello DA100..... USG

Can you elaborate on the sound of the Stello / GS-1 combination?
I am in the same situation as Gordon and looking for a SS amp for my 650s and K701s.
The two amps that look the most appealing so far are the GS-1 and the Solo.

 

[JMcMasterJ]

A Singlepower PPX3 Slam or Extreme would be good options as well.

 

[GordonFreeman]

Quote:

Originally Posted by JMcMasterJ /img/forum/go_quote.gif A Singlepower PPX3 Slam or Extreme would be good options as well.

What can you tell us about the 2 different Singlepowers?

 

[jgonino]

The PPX3 is the entrey level singlepower, and has a very lush warm sound. It has a wide soundstage, and really involves you in the music.


The Extreme is a step up, and unless you buy used, it would be out of your price range.

 

[number1sixerfan]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jgonino /img/forum/go_quote.gif The Extreme is a step up, and unless you buy used, it would be out of your price range.

I thought the base was $1000?


Anyways, I had the ppx3 slam with the hd650's and it was a nice combo. However, I think a brighter amp would do the hd650's more justice because it is already a darker phone. The GS-1 would probably be a good choice.

 

[greggf]

Naim Headline 2, PS Audio GCHA, maybe the Lehmann Black Cube Linear. My fav of the 3 with the HD650 was the GCHA, but I think it's a very personal choice.