OT---New Amplifier for my Altecs

[voice of the theater]

Couldn't find the original thread I started for this so I'm posting a question here instead. I'm still looking for a new solid state amp to power my Model 19's and 14's--I may end up buying a couple of them if I can find one I like. In the other thread that I started regarding this, I mentioned that I was considering an NAD amp and someone (Bowtie maybe) mentioned that their build quality is not great. Well, I read some reviews on the NAD amp I was considering and one said it sounded great but ran "Volcano Hot" and another said his is in the shop already with popping in one channel. So, thanks to this forum I dodged another bullet!

Anyways, I've heard (here maybe?) that the new Marantz amps/receivers aren't very good, so I guess that rules out this one I was looking at

Marantz US | SR4023

I'm now seriously considering this Yamaha receiver. I've had really good luck with both Yamaha audio gear and their pro gear that I've used with my band over the years. Anyone ever heard one of these receivers (or a similar model by them?)? There is a link to download the manual -- I really like the design and the specs look amazing but specs are just specs of course!

R-S500 - Stereo Receivers - Hi-Fi Components - Audio & Visual - Products - Yamaha United States

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Or does anyone have other recommendations?

[Panomaniac]

I haven't heard it, but the Denon AVR-591 comes highly recommend by a friend who is a very good tube amp designer. He really likes the sound of it.
They retail for about $300, but I've seen them several times on eBay for ~$150. I'll pick one up when I have the spare cash. FWIW.

[voice of the theater]

I owned a Denon receiver several years ago and the left channel was louder than the other--I returned it and the replacement unit had the right channel louder than the other. Maybe it was just a problem with that model but it really turned me off of Denon receivers.....

[just me now]

I personally tend towards the older crown commerical or commercially derived amps...

[bowtie427ss]

Any interest in a Nakamichi Stasis PA5II? PM me.

[cradeldorf]

I replaced that Marantz N1501 surround receiver with the Harman Kardon. It was a major improvement so I agree with you on your thoughts about the new marantz's. Unfortunately the HK has a hum in the left channel So I'm swapping that out today for the 2216 Marantz ...I hope what ever one you chose it works out for you.