2. amps-preamps
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cambridge a3i or nad c-320bee

hi:

I am considering one of these two amps. I listen to all types a music typically classic rock and the my wife likes top 40, we occasional get in the mood for jazz and classical. I personally like my music loud, and have it on when I am puttering around the house. So I want something that is clear and has power. Unfortunatley I am on a budget. Other than these 2 amps would a "big box retail" typr of reciever rated higher be a wiser choice in this price point? Any recomandations on these amps or others greatly appreciated.

thanx
sandropiroddi79ef
sandropiroddi79ef OP
1 posts
 
Thanx for the info. i am from canda and my selection is limited for auditioning
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,792 posts
 
In the $400 USD price range for new equipment, I am a real fan of the NAD 320BEE. I have owned one now for 4 months and am very pleased with it. Clean, detailed, and clear sounding with useful, deep bass. I posted a review of the NAD in Agon. With the exception of some interconnect and speaker cable upgrades, my opinion is still the same.

Regards, Rich
markblom
34 posts
 
I always hate when you ask for opinion on somthing and people tell you other brands to try. So I won't do that the NAD has more power and a smoother sound so it sorta depends on your speakers I love NAD stuff they are way underated I have a 40 per channel integrated that is way more ballsy then my 105 watt perchannel Marantz home theater reciver amp. I think your on the right track for best sound on a budget and I think the NAD would be better BUT I havn't heard that model of the Cambridge it might be just as food though I doubt it. NAD Rocks !!
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I have actually owned both (I think an older C320?). Based on what I heard, not what I read in a magazine, I would take the Cambridge A3i.

The A3i was designed by Michael Creek (Creek Audio).
It also has a very good phono stage built in, so you can add a turntable. The only real difference between it and a Creek amplifier, is that it is made in Asia instead of the UK.

The NAD is a very nice amp as well, but it seemed slightly bland to me anyway. The bass seemed a little slower, which to some may make it sound warmer. But that kind of warmer came accross as bland for my taste anyway.

I would still own my A3i, except after I put it in my work office, I discovered I really needed a remote to control the volume and mute without leaving my desk. So I traded it for a Creek 4330R amplifier, which you may also want to consider if you can spare another $100+ on the used market.
They do sound about the same, the Cambridge actually has a little more power.

You really can't go wrong with an NAD either, so you will probably be happy with either.
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