Better Integrated Amp?

Look closer at that Rega Io.
Smaller form factor.
Newer discrete AB topology.
Award winning SQ.
Lifetime warranty.
A perfect start and you will probably have it forever in secondary systems.
I still use my starter integrated from 1970.


Just head towards reasonably flat impedance 8 ohm speakers as Rega states it runs hot (°) into 4 ohms.  Unless you LIKE electric heat.

I would pick it up for $430 new.
But that’s just me.

A lot of you seem to agree that the Rega Io is a really good option so I'm having a look into that now. Its power output seems much lower than others at 30W at 8ohms, I'm guessing this isnt an issue given how popular it seems to be, its a similar price to the others so that is good. It seems to have a few less features then the denon but im assuming you sacrifice that for sound quality and performance which is more important. If I were to go with the Rega anyone got any good speaker recommendations? I would like to go to some shops and listen but with Covid I dont think thats happening anytime soon.

For speakers to match with the Rega, you might want to look at something like the Triangle BR03. It has 90db sensitivity and a 8 ohm nominal impedance. Should be pretty easy to drive and it has received great reviews as a budget friendly bookshelf size 2 way speaker. I do not own the BR03 and have not heard it. But I did previously own the Triangle Titus speaker which had similar specs. I enjoyed then quite a bit.

Audiogon has a couple of NAD amps in this price range I'd recommend.

This on in particular:

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa5fhb-nad-c-328-hybrid-digital-dac-integrated-amplifier-solid-s...

The unusual hybrid Class D amplifier does not get enough credit and sounds far better to my ears than a lot of others. 

If you can swing $800 I'd also recommend a listed Arcam.

Best,

Erik

You didn't state a budget for speakers but I like the Vandersteen VLR Wood ($1495 USD). I have also heard it with the Proac D2 and Tablette's and both sounded really good. Being in the UK they might be easier to demo. The best sound I heard with it was the Vandersteen VLR CT but it's a bit pricey at $3100 US. If you have a local Rega dealer I would suggest that you go have a listen and see what the dealer recommends.

I am currently using it with Tannoy M1 bookshelf speakers. They are small and I have had them for 16 years. Maybe some current Tannoy's would be a good fit.

Good Luck!