Which mini amp

[Markiii]

Chaps

My kitchen system currently consists of a squeezebox touch as the source and sonance ceiling speakers

The weak point is the amplification which is a dirt cheap sharp mini system, I only purchased this because at the time it was the only thing that physically fit the available cupboard space

Things have moved on and there now seems a wealth of mini amps which could yield improvement

I have an Inate distrust of Chinese electronics especially where it could be a hidden fire risk, which rules out many of the cheap class t stuff

I'm pretty much down to a choice of either a bantam or a project amp box either of which would likely do the job

But before I press the button has anyone got any experience of comparing the two?

[synsei]

My advice to you Mark would be to hold on for the new Amptastic amp that is due on sale soon. I bought one of the previous generation amps and it was so good it supplanted a modified Hafler DH220 for power amp duties in my main system ;)

[The Grand Wazoo]

Dave's recommendation is one to take seriously Mark - a lot of AoS'ers own the Amptastic amps in their 2nd (and some very notable 1st systems) and have done for a while now. They are very reliable and can sound fantastic in a well fashioned system. UK support and good customer service. Not to be overlooked.

[John]

The amptastic is nice also worth considering is the Bantam I use one with the slagle volume control and so happy with the sound I get

[Markiii]

thanks chaps

any idea when the new amptastic will be available?

what is the Slagle volume control?

[John]

Not a cheap option but here is a link
http://www.enjoythemusic.com/diy/0611/slagle_autoformer_volume_control_modules.htm

[WAD62]

My advice to you Mark would be to hold on for the new Amptastic amp that is due on sale soon.

Same advice from me, the new one is supposed to feature a 'power only' option, so would be excellent with a pre-amp DAC ;)

I have one of the originals in my kitchen setup, it's been on for nearly 2 years and hasn't missed a beat :)

[Markiii]

power amp version would be great as i will use th eSB Touch remote for volume

any idea when they are due out?

[synsei]

The first quarter of 2013 was mentioned I believe. Chris from Amptastic did say that we would be the first to know here on AoS so keep your eyes peeled. Here is a link to the thread http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=20626&highlight=amptastic ;)