Need help buying an older amp for nearfileds, what do you reccommend?

[mrsm57]

Need help buying an older amp for nearfields, what do you reccommend?

HI,
Just bought the Yorkville ysm1's. I can't afford $200 to spend on an amp right now, so I thought I could pick up something used on ebay. Besides the samson, what are some amps to look for? Model numbers too please. Thanks!

 

[MandoManiac]

You're dyin' here. Must support a YSM user.
I have YSM's too. Love 'em. Not perfect, but they translate well and are a great value. I use a Samson for loud stuff (not the most detailed amp, but cheap) or a Cambridge Audio amp..very detailed, not much power.
Here's my quick cheap amp list:
Bryston 2B (Well built, smooth, great bass)
Hafler TA1100 (One on ebay now for $91, lists for $199
NAD 2200 (Also on ebay now)
Adcom 535, 545 - Some RAP users swear by these...for the price
CROWN D60 (I don't like the sound as much as the others above, but you can buy it now at ebay for $125)

And don't be afraid of looking for a good quality home hi-fi amp, that's what I did. And of course, listen B4 you buy! That's the down side of eBay. An amp/speaker combo is a synergy. My Cambridge amp balances the sins (not that it has any) of the YSM's. Tames the sometimes lumpy upper-bass and the combo images wonderfully. Good Hunting!

 

[darrin_h2000]

I found my carver at a garage sale for 20.00 and Its perfect.

 

[mrsm57]

THANKS MANDO AND DARRIN!

I am still using an ancient traynor mixer/amp, I will look up your sugggestions! The hafler ta1100 looks good, but bidding for these usually ends at around $175 - not a great deal when the amp sells new for $199. I may just wait and get the hafler - thanks for the posts!