2. amps-preamps
  3. 184600-182675

Amp question with size constraints

I am in the process of looking to upgrade my amplifier (presently a Rega Brio R), but I am faced with size constraints: given the built-ins I have, I cannot really go much beyond 13 inches in depth. The trouble of course is that better amps tend to be larger in size. 

To add another wrinkle, I primarily listen to vinyl (via custom Linn Sondek TT w/ MC cartridge and Fyne floorstanders). I've seen positive reviews of smaller Cambridge and NAD integrated amps, but they tend to focus on the digital side of things. What I'm wondering is whether an integrated amp with my size constraints would work well with my setup for vinyl, or alternatively if there is a good power amp within that scale that I could just pair with a decent phono preamp. 

I am not married to any particular approach but am not really sure which way to go at this point. Help me, Obi-Wan, etc.

polanskyd
polanskyd OP
8 posts
 

?

yyzsantabarbara
4,894 posts
 

The new Class D GAN1 amps are usually small. I am using a modded PeachTree GAN1 on a great speaker and it sounds amazing. Though I cannot recommend it to you. Check out other GAN amps (just not the GAN1 since it won’t work for you). I have not heard the AGD amps, but people seem to love those GAN amps and they are tiny.

The Benchmark AHB2 is one of the best amps and also tiny. It does not have massive amounts of power but if you speakers are not too demanding it could work great. It is the most neutral and quietest amp around so you can flavor with source and preamp.

I also have the same situation as you with regards to an amp to replace the GAN1 (I need more ease of use). The CODA #8 is 14 inches deep and works for my Ikea ’shelf'. I think I going to get this amp (again).

I was also looking at the smallish NAD M23 (Purifi) which likely sounds like the AHB2. Though I have concerns about reliability from reading posts here.

tablejockey
3,916 posts
 

The future is here, and we were warned.

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