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First Post Looking for Integrated Amplifier

Hello Forum!

My name is Justin and I am a newcomer to the forum (recommended by a friend). I'm looking for help on choosing an amp,integrated amp, or receiver. Currently, I have an older receiver that works great for TV, DVD and video games but lacks when I play my albums through it (there is not phono input). I have a preamp which helps but I still have to turn the volume up to about 90%. I would say that my primary focus is to get a receiver or amplifier that is more well rounded - especially for my vinyl.

I'm budgeting about $300 and something middle-of-the-road. If that budget is a bit low I would love some insight.

For speakers, I have two Sony SSF-5000s (150-watt, 8 ohms). I have to admit that I'm not too sure on what the impedance is.

Any help, recommendation, knowledge is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
jharris89
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
You need a phono input, not a line input; follow Swampwalker's advice. An NAD integrated with phono stage would also be my choice, they stand the test of time. Be aware that NAD integrateds are often sold w/o a phono stage, but can be added on.
Also tell us what TT and cartridge you're using.

Reliable NAD seller, but no phono stage...
[url]http://app.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-nad-c-326bee-c326bee-integrated-amplifier-with-manufacturer-s-warranty-free-shipping-2013-12-18-integrateds-01060-florence-ma[/url]
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Follow Swampwalkers advice plus this: if your preamp has a tape out, use that instead of the pre out. The tape out is not affected by the volume control and will pass the phono signal through in the cleanest manner.
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
I would look for an NAD, Marantz PM6004 (New $399) or if phono is really important to you, prehaps a Rega Brio 3. (No headphone jack on the Rega though.) I'm using a little NAD 302 Int. amp which is a VERY nice sounding and has plenty of juice at "only" 20w per ch. My NAD 302 has a warmer sound than my vintage Sansui AU-D33. Honestly, I've owned Marantz in the past and if I was buying new, I'd get the Marantz 6004 for $399 New. (While supplies last. would not delay for long though.) Music Hall 15.3 would be another possibilty. (I've seen $420 demo on AudiogoN) LOTS of choices. Good Luck! Bill
sfar's avatar
sfar
1,758 posts
 
The NAD and Marantz recommendations are good ones but if you'd prefer to buy new and want to stick to your $300 budget a good bet might be the Onkyo-A-5VL from accessories4less.com.

It's a competent amp, MSRP on it is $699, but they have them factory refurbished for $299. I don't know about the quality of the MM/MC photo stage in it but one of the big advantages of the amp is the built-in Burr Brown DAC. That opens up the world of streaming music or computer based audio.
chayro
2,987 posts
 
I think you might really like this Onkyo Integrated. I owned the previous model while I was waiting for a $4000 tube amp to be delivered and it sounded amazingly good for the price. Plus, it has tone controls, which are a good idea, IMO. Welcome and best of luck.
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