Help to find a replacement Amp for my budget 00s Sony TA-FE570

[odysseas_gr]

Hello everyone,

I currently have the set-up below. My budget Sony amp, which is pretty powerful for my needs (110w @4OHM), seems to be struggling on hot days. The bass feels weak and the highs are too bright.
Looks like I'm due for a service, but I'm debating whether it's worth getting it fixed or just replacing it.

So, I've decided that replacing it might be a better bet. I was torn between getting a second-hand amp from the 70s/80s, or one from the 90s/00s. In the end, I decided to go with a 90s/00s amp, because older equipment tends to have more issues and replacement costs.

I've found a couple of second-hand amps that seem in good shape. I'll get to try all of them, but I'm wondering which one you think is the best improvement over my current Sony Amp? I'm also looking to have a decent phono for my second TT.

Denon PMA-800, Denon PMA-980R, Denon PMA-560R, Denon PMA-925, Sansui A-9, Marantz PM62 mkii, Rotel RA-970BX


My setup:
Integrated Amplifier: Sony TA-FE570
Pre-Amp: Pro-ject Tube Box SE2
Speakers: Def Tech SM45
Turntable 1: Pro-ject debut carbon esprit DC SB with Ortofon 2M red (connected to Pre-Amp)
Turntable 2: Pioneer PL-6 with Ortofon MC-1 Turbo (connected to Amp Phono)

Thank you for your help!

 

[odysseas_gr]

so I opted for the Denon PMA-980R. I bought it for €150 (which is around $180). Before the purchase I asked the advice from a service store in my area that specializes in repairing amps for many years. They advised me to go for it, it is a good value for money, reliable amp, good setup and any issue is serviceable, with the full restoration service, fixing also the known issues those amps have with the selectors, as well as some basic caps change, won't cost more than €80.

 

[Bone Yard]

Sorry I can't help you with newer equipment but the Denon looks like a decent unit. The good news it is set up for DAT so you won't have any issues with your player. I think it's a first, I don't remember ever seeing a receiver with DAT on the function selector before.