Client has this power amp with a pretty good hum (I know, it hums because it doesn't know the words).

It's 3 rack spaces ('bout 5-1/4") high and I'd like to find something that isn't too expensive to replace it. I can get an Integra but want to keep it under a grand if possible.

It's actually part of an older Dolby Surround system so it's only four channel. I know the new one would likely be 5 and that's OK.

Thanks for any input.

Have you tried AMC? They're a great little power plant for very few dollars. and they have a four channel model, the 2445a.
I just checked and they're distributed by Weltronics 800-321-6396

I hadn't heard of AMC before - have you used them and found them to be good and RELIABLE over the long haul? Thanks for the advice.

Yes I have used them before. Most of the time in ultra cheap multi-room installations. eg, CD player into amp, into volume pots, into ceiling speakers. We haven't done these installs for about five years and we don't hear about them failing either. I guess this is probably the hardest life for an amp (?) and we had very few problems at all.
I was told that they were designed by some guys that left NAD many years ago.

Try Xantech PA 4100X 4 channel 100 watts probably under $500 cost I bet. It sounds good and reliable .

http://www.xantech.com/

SInce this is a Public forum, we try to speak in retail prices as much as posible Jason.... Just a FYI.....



The PA4100X is an excellent option though.

In addition to the public forum remonition, it's important to note your estimate is VERY light.

check out Rotel multi-ch, configurable amps...great, versitle and reliable.
tjg

we've used AMC and found them very reliable. Marantz have an inexpensive 6 ch (ZS5300) though a bit light in power, we have recently started spec'ing Rotel and find these have good power and current levels and are reliable to boot, plus they sound good and represent good value for money.
Rotel would certainly be my pick. IMO

These are 2 RU but might blow your budget.

[Link: qscaudio.com]

I think I will certainly recommend five channels at this point since their Dolby Surround pre/pro won't last forever.

I think given their budget and the long term costs associated with separate amps plus a DD pre/pro, they oughta get a decent receiver and start canning this 15 year old stuff. Get a decent Integra receiver and they can dump the amp, preamp/processor, BBE Sonic Maximizer (and speaker destroyer) plus another aux amplifier for the background music for this room.

Thanks for all who advised. If they elect to keep the system intact, I've got some great leads on amps.