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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
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
19,441 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
68 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.

doyle3433's avatar
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doyle3433
309 posts
 

Agree completely on the Cary SLI 80HS. I’ve had mine for about a year, bought from Cary Direct during a sale. Had all of the modifications except the better binding posts, (which I kick myself now for not adding)... I have it paired with Volti Razz, and they make a great match. From what I hear and remember, Cary is excellent with customer support.

I listened to a couple integrated offerings from Black Ice at the Florida Expo earlier this year and they were impressive, (in the brief listening sessions)

Another contender might be Margules, either the new ACRH 4 (hybrid) or the I240. I have an ACRH 3 and it’s great.

Had a Rogue Atlas 3 with a Rogue RP-1. pretty powerful and dynamic, but noisy. Funny thing was when I had the Atlas 3 paired with an old NAD pre-amp, it was dead quiet.

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