2. amps-preamps
  3. 189968-183416

Final Decision On An Integrated Amp

I'm finally at the point of selecting an integrated amp to replace the old Prima Luna Dialogue One.  I've narrowed the field to the following:

  1. Conrad Johnson CAV-45
  2. Modwright KWH-225i
  3. Octave V40
  4. Raven Osprey
  5. Jadis Orchestra Black

I've read plenty of reviews on them and sifted through posts on Audiogon and elsewhere, both good and bad, and it seems like a decent lot of gear.  They are all within my $5000 to $6000 budget (the Modwright is over my budget, but not by much).  And nearly all have a home trial period, though I can't do it for them all since return shipping and credit card fees will eat up my budget.  Each has things I like and want, but none have everything I desire.  None are perfect.

What I'm trying to find out is if there is some unwritten cautionary story about any one of them.  I'd hate to find out too late that one is prone to burning out this part, something else prematurely fails, there is a problem getting service, etc.  Does anyone have a negative experience with these or something that went seriously wrong?

Thanks,

John Cotner

New Ulm, MN 

jrcotner
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,206 posts
 

I don't believe Jadis has a US service center... so any repairs may require shipping them back to France.  Also the "Black" version of the Jadis Orchestra uses cheaper third party transformers, unlike the better Jadis amps using transformers built in house.  You'll get a lot more bang for your buck if you buy "used" from Audiogon or US Audiomart... just buy a brand that has a good reputation, preferably with point to point wiring and ability to service in the US.  Also it looks like the Sonetto's (88 dB / 4 ohm) could benefit from a little more power than most of the amps on your list, with the exception of the Modwright.  I'd want at least 80 wpc for a tube amp with those speakers.  

Just quickly perusing the classifieds... here are some integrateds for your consideration:

  • Cary SLI 80 (on sale factory direct on the Cary website and under budget)
  • McIntosh MA252... hybrid with plenty of power and Mac is known to pair well with Sonus Faber
  • Rogue Cronus Magnum "Dark" - $4,500 new
  • Circle Labs A200 - used one listed on US Audiomart for $4,500... hybrid integrated
  • Don Sachs Valhalla listed on US Audiomart
  • Audio Research VSI 75 listed on US Audiomart
jrcotner OP
66 posts
 

Thank you for the input.  I wasn't sure if Jadis had a U.S. service center or not.  That is certainly a strike against it.  I'm leaning toward the Modwright for the reasons you cited.  However, I'm not sure if it will be "tubey" enough for me.  I listened to the Mac when I tried out my speakers and didn't care for it.

I had considered the Rogue but opted out due to a lot of posts which described it as more for rock and roll than detail and nuance.

pehare's avatar
pehare
835 posts
 

I recommend the Cary SLI-80HS as @pdreher mentioned.  I've owned the SLI-80 F-1 and after years away just bought another - it's that good.  I've owned the Audio Research vsi55 and the original Cronus Magnum and they're not even close.  It's better than separates that cost much more I've been there too.  In triode mode 40wpc in class A is sublime w/the right speakers tube goodness galore.  The current sale ends this comingTuesday save 1500 beans.  Good luck

jafant's avatar
jafant
19,427 posts
 

jrcotner

I like the CJ CAV-45 Control Amp. It features that classic "golden" presentation and sound. The newest version S3 is out now. Plenty of finese and power, backed by excellent customer service.  Keep me posted on which Integrated purchased.

 

Happy Listening!

jrcotner OP
66 posts
 

I had a nice conversation with Kristin at Modwright yesterday.  She offered me a good deal on a new amp and will install a switch to cut off the display if necessary.  Fourteen day home trial and if I return it I pay shipping and the credit card transaction fees.  I'm going to give it a try.

More to discover