[davidhoenig]

Hi all,


Looking for some discussion on a good mate for the AVM-30. I'm looking for an amp in $2000-3500 range. Right now, my two top choices are Sherbourn 7/2100A and Gemstone Blue Diamond. Both are in a similar price range. Anyone have direct experience with the Blue Diamond?


I have a couple of additional questions. It was my understanding that no amps in the lower price range truly run balanced. Gemstone claims they are. I know Sherbourn has balanced inputs as well, but I've been told in the past that, while the inputs are balanced, the amps in this price range do not run balanced interally. Any thoughts on this as well?


Thanks for the help,

Dave

 

[nethomas]

I think you have picked two good amps to chose from.. I have used the Sherbourn and it is a great amp. I currently have the Gemstone and it is a great amp. I like it better for low level music listening. The Gemstone is a true balanced amp according to Steve the owner. By the way I also have Anthem. First an AVM20, currently a D1.

NETHOMAS

 

[DreamCatcher]

Another nice amp choice, that is a fully balanced design,

the ATI AT2007.


or


the new Emotiva MPS-1

Not sure if it's a balanced design but it sure is pretty

and cheap.


I haven't heard the Emotiva yet,

but the ATI AT2007 is a very "sweet" sounding amp, imo.


Regards,


dc

 

[mattepntr]

I have an Outlaw 770 amp paired with my AVM30. NO complaints!


Rick

 

[Diode1]

Dave,
Quote:

no amps in the lower price range truly run balanced.

The Gemstone IS fully differentially balanced internally.


The Sherbourn is not, but is still a fine amplifier in its own right.

 

[davidhoenig]

Any other opinions? Any alternate recommendations?

 

[Anthony A.]

why not go with anthem amps. the combo will IMO sonically match much better than any other manufacturer since the company tests their equipment with each other. that is what i would do, and actually am doing.... just waiting for my d1. cheers!!!

 

[Kris Deering]

I second the recommendation for the Anthem amps. The MCA series is incredible for the price. The Gemstone has been getting some great reviews as well. ATI has always made very solid no frills amps and the Sherbourne is good too. Really, I don't think you can go wrong with any of these. It is all what your system takes to the best.

 

[imagamejunky]

I'm going with Anthem MCA series amps with my AVM 30.

2 MCA 20's and 1 MCA 30.

I will keep you posted once they come in.