2. amps-preamps
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Decent stereo amp / pre amp on relative budget

I have started putting together a stereo only system. I have a limited budget (and a huge mortgage, two small children, etc.) but I love music and so I am trying to be cost effective and get the best I can. I already have a pair of Paradigm Studio 100 v.3s and I am considering getting the Anthem Statment A2 amplifier. I am wondering whether I would be better off with a pre amp / amp combo or an integrated amp. I believe the former will give me better sound but at a higher price. I do not have a phono -only a CD player. My budget is tops $3500 for the pre-amp / amp. The room size is 20ft long by 10 ft wide by 9 ft high.

I listen to all sorts of music from classical to hard rock

Any suggestions on what pre amps / amps to consider would be most welcome.
smbestbier
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
Greetings,
I'm enjoying a PS Audio combo; HCA-2 digital amp at 150wpc into 8 ohms. And the PCA-2 preamp. Very nice equipment that'll set you back about $1,600 - for both if you buy used on Agon! Economical separates that perform extremely well. Mate them with a nice cd player and you've got superb music.

Do not overlook quality interconnects and speaker cables. You'll never hear the best of your system until the connections are up to level of quality as your components. Used lower/mid end Audioquest cables are always a good choice for beginning. You should be able to get decent enough cables at economical price. But, then again, I spent more on cables than any other component in my system at this point! But the sound is worth it.
55dok
162 posts
 
If you can find a luxman R117 receiver (160watts/channel) or the R115 (approx 80watts/channel) try them. With the CD bypass switch you can run your CD directly into the amp section. Great sound and value and you can sometimes find a r117 for $250-300 or a r115 for $100-200 on ebay. Try silent Audio Apollo C copper interconnects on auction on Audiogon. If you can get away with shorter lengths they become even more inexpensive- just email Paul. If you want separates you might try Threshold, Forte or Classe. Perhaps other owners of your speakers will know what electronics have the best synergy or you could call the company to see what they suggest.
klinerm
80 posts
 
The Luxman R1120A is also a great unit, even better than the R-117 (I presently own both). Although the R1120A is rated at 120 wpc, vs.160 for the R-117, it sounds stronger and fuller, and much more like tubes. The MC/MM phono section is superb, the tuner is equally superb, and you can get them for $200-300 on ebay when the come along (not often)
matti
114 posts
 
(Used) Aragon 8008BB/28K, Bryston 4BST/BP25 or, if you shop well on agon, Krell 2250/280P. I use the Krell combo with Energy speakers and it's very nice. Can't go wrong with any of these though. Good luck.
dawgfish
157 posts
 
I think you'd be hard pressed to beat the Ayre CX7e integrated. There's a used on listed for $2400 (and I'm in no way affiliated with Ayre or that seller). Would still leave some moolah for more music, which is always a good thing!
Happy listening!
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