I own an Aesthetix Mimas with DAC and phono modules. Excellent integrated and under $10k.
All-in-one integrated, 10-15K range, class A/B only
For a second system. I want to buy a SS all-in-one integrated. At least 200W in 8ohm.
When I say all-in-one means it has to have DAC built-in (preferable a very nice DAC commensurate to the price point of the system). I would highly prefer a streamer built-in as well.
Am super excited about the new Boulder 866. It seems to be the only one satisfying all the criterion.
Another option could be the Accuphase E-800 with DAC module (but no streaming).
DAG Progression but it crosses 18K without DAC.
Any other options?
I am not interested in anything Class-D. It has to be Class A/B amplifier.
Speakers are TBD as well.
When I say all-in-one means it has to have DAC built-in (preferable a very nice DAC commensurate to the price point of the system). I would highly prefer a streamer built-in as well.
Am super excited about the new Boulder 866. It seems to be the only one satisfying all the criterion.
Another option could be the Accuphase E-800 with DAC module (but no streaming).
DAG Progression but it crosses 18K without DAC.
Any other options?
I am not interested in anything Class-D. It has to be Class A/B amplifier.
Speakers are TBD as well.
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- 140 posts total
The reviews all said the 390 was great for its price but that the 590 was on a different level, and the 590 is well within the budget, so might as well get the best for the money willing to spend. If wattage was the only difference and didn’t feel the need for then that’s different. Having said that it sounds like speakers arnt set yet and I do believe I saw Maggie’s 20.7 mentioned as a possibility( they can suck up lots more power than 300 watts no problem) And also that he was looking to go with efficient speakers so much this time. Based on that, I’d look into as much power as possible, and for anyone who bass is a big deal, the more power, the better the control over the bass. |
Hello @essrand - First, I think your specifying a price point is entirely appropriate and, in fact, essential, to generating intelligent and helpful responses. But there are all kinds on here as I learned from being a 25 year Agoner. I think I may have been in the same or similar SS integrated boat as you are and I believe I am in a position to provide useful feedback. Many of the above comments make truly excellent suggestions which should be weighed. I have four systems in my home (large home) and two are based on SS integrateds. One is the Mark Levinson 585 and the other is the Pass INT 250. The Pass is driving Raidhos and the Levinson is driving Magicos. Both are in your wheelhouse, i.e. $10-15K and 200 WPC or more. I must say I love them both, but the Pass is closer to a tube amp than almost every other integrated mentioned, and that includes the wonderful Hegel, DartZeel and Vitus integrateds. Also, the Pass is simply the best with an analog front end. (I have a post seeking turntable advice so if anyone cares to help out there, that would be nice). Both companies excel over many of the others mentioned, however, in customer service, with Pass being over the top. But Harmon is also very responsive. This is an important factor for me. I have a son who is an electrical engineer educated at Georgia Tech, but I can hardly replace batteries in a flashlight. If you would like more detailed feedback on these amps please feel free to message me. Hope some of this is useful to you. Regards, H |
We are a dealer for a few choice products. 1. Hegel H-590 Reference Integrated Amplifier. 2. Vinni Rossi L2i & L2i SE Integrated Amplifier. 3. CH Precision i1 4. Jeff Rowland Continuum Integrated Amplifier ( Class D but sweet sounding ) If you have questions, Please call 626-966-6259 www.sunnyaudiovideo.com |
- 140 posts total