Anyone here?

Boomzilla -- Thu, 07/21/2011 - 04:10

 Boy, this forum seems dead...  
 
If anyone's out there, I'd like an opinion on a budgeting question for amplification.  All things being equal (which they NEVER are), mono amps are superior to stereo or integrated stereo units because of their better separation.  I'd like the performance, but the simplicity of an integrated is highly appealing.
 
The specific combos that I'm looking at are:
1.  Outlaw audio 200w mono amps with a used tube preamp (about $1,200)
2.  NAD c375bee integrated 150 wpc (about $1,200)
3.  Yamaha A-S2000 integrated 190 wpc (about $1,400)
 
The setup will be driving a 3.8 ohm pair of Thiel 3.6 speakers.  My room isn't large; I don't listen loudly.
Of the specific choices listed, are there any shining stars or obvious schlubs?  Are there any other choices in the price range that I should be looking at?  The front end of this system will be an iTunes server feeding an AirPort Express via wireless.  For now, I'm having to use the DAC in the AirPort, but will consider a better DAC in the future.
 
Because the Thiels are so revealing, and because they're such a difficult drive (low impedance across the frequency spectrum coupled with tough phase angles from the complicated crossover), the quality of the amplification will be more critical than with a sweeter or less-revealing speaker.  Assuming that the budget is not flexible, what can y'all suggest?
 
Thanks - Boomzilla (ps - the moniker is NOT indicative of listening preferences...)

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