Which Amp?

[Vimeous]

A good friend is in a conundrum - his amp is dying and he's considering new. He wants to retain his current late '80's early '90's Linn Index speakers (86dB/W) but doesn't have a huge budget, sub-£400 at best. Tone controls, a phone stage and other such fipperies are considered unnecessary. However the ability to deliver thoroughly convincing piano and naked cello is vital. Do these particular requirements skew the usual WHF recommedations or will the usual suspects deliver what's needed?

 

[Helmut80]

Do I read between the lines that he is considering new only?

 

[Vimeous]

New is his first choice but as always fire away with your suggestions.
I'd offer him my Arcam if the source selector worked as it has a great midrange.

Thing is I've no idea what characteristics the Linn's exhibit so any suggestion from me will be a total shot in the dark.

 

[Frank Harvey]

I think he's to be a little limited with that sort of budget, as I know the Index was quite a fussy speaker, and tended to prefer Linn amplification. Best bet would be to look at the used market, maybe pick up a used Linn Majik-I or Intek.