2. amps-preamps
  3. 1265766193

Best Integrated w/ Phono-In under $350

I have decided to get my feet in the world of vinyl. I am trying to get educated and put together a system at the same time. But the amp part of it has me very confused.

I am on a fairly limited budget and really want to find a good starter amp under $350. Aside from needing to have a phono-in I really have no other requirements. New or used is fine.

Some I've looked at are the Marantz PM5003 (seen a few at the top of my budget), the NAD C325BEE (have yet to see one available anywhere), and a few others. But like I said, I am pretty well wrapped around the axle now and would appreciate some guidance from those who are more worldly about these things.

Thanks.
dmw16
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
completely agree
mhedges
180 posts
 
I would be patient and try to snag a late 80's/early 90's Sony ES integrated. One of the cheaper ones (but still pretty nice, the TA-F606ES) recently sold for under $100 on ebay. These have nice phono sections and good amp sections.

Keep checking around and I am sure something will come up.

You could also try older receivers. Many of the TOTL ones had pretty good phono stages. There are two top-of-the-line Sony GX10ES receivers on ebay right now, but they are a little out of your price range.

I am currently using a Sony GX50ES reciever (a very basic model compared with the GX10ES) while my preamp is out for mods and I am pleasantly surprised at how nice it sounds.

Mark
dobieguy
20 posts
 
DMW16
Vintage gear from the 70/80's is the way to go.
I've been a fan of Yamaha's"Natural Sound" line ,
owning amps,tuners and tape decks over the years.
There is a integrated listed now(NOT MINE-DON'T KNOW SELLER).Some have 2 phono inputs and the amps are switchable class A/AB.They are built for the ages.Good luck
tbromgard
814 posts
 
I would go with the NAD integrated used-and a used NAD pp2 or pp3. Very good sound for the money
episteme
55 posts
 
The "go vintage" suggestions are good ones. I'd go with that.

However, it you do want a newer integrated amp, I'd plan on not using the built in phono pre (if it even has one). You will have better luck using a separate phono pre at around the $100 price point (NAD PP2, etc.). (You could use something cheaper until you raise the funds... they start very low.)
More to discover