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Good 2 channel integrated amplifier for 702 s2 under 3k?

Hey everyone just purchased a pair of new B&W 702 s2 speakers today but am trying to decide the best way to power them for 2-3k. I would like to stay closer to 2k but can stretch to 3k if necessary. I will be using these for 50% music of all types and 50% movies. I would love to upgrade to a 5.1 at some point but I am looking at amplifiers because I don't want to sacrifice sound quality and don't have an affordable solution to this. My priorities are to get as much deep bass as possible out of them and to try and warm up the harsh high frequencies if possible. Here are some I am considering:

1. Rotel RA-1572 (2x120W) 
2. Rotel RA-1592 (2x200W) 
3. Musical Fidelity M6si (2x220W)
4. NAD M10 (2x100W)
5. NAD C 388 BluOS-2i (2x150W)
6. Arcam SR250 (2x250W)

I am open to new suggestions and have just started my search. I am also interested to know if I will really need the RA-1592 with 200W or if the cheaper version with 120W should be enough if I go with Rotel? Also, if there is a good option for an AV reciever that will sound comparable but allow me to go with 5.1. Thanks!





km1181
medialies's avatar
medialies
45 posts
 
I agree with crombie-sg3.
I have those speakers and I power them with a McIntosh MC7270.
The unit puts out a conservative 270 watts per channel. The only reason I am adding my 2 cents is they sound fantastic with a McIntosh. Simply marvelous! More then enough power and built like a tank.
My point is I bought the Mac used for $2300.00. I could sell it today at a little more then that.
You could not buy (new) a comparable unit today for that amount of money . So if buying used peaks your interest look for something that has been well taken care of. A service history is always a plus.
If a used McIntosh fits you idea of a good sounding amp check out the folks at Audio Classics. Highly reputable.. Might pay a tad more but their rebuilds and refurbish equipment is second to none..IMHO.

https://www.audioclassics.com/



P.S of the units you have listed I like the Rotel 1592. I've read good reports with it being matched with the 702's.
mrfrito's avatar
mrfrito
30 posts
 
I run a Rogue Audio Pharoah with B&W CM10s for years . I just upgraded speakers to B&W 804D . The Pharoah is just a great piece of equipment ,with Mullard tubes you just can't go wrong. Plus the Phono stage is very good. Rogue Audio also stands behind gear 100%. 


gratefuleric
112 posts
 
Why isn't anyone talking about Peachtree Nova 300? Awesome, powerful integrated with a great built-in DAC. $2,200
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 
I think the Musical Fidelity is the best amp on your list but I am not sure if it is the right fit for B&W tonally.  

Sub $3K, I would look at the Parasound integrated.  I think that will give you the best sound match for your speakers.  
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Kinki Studio EX-M1 or EX-M1+. It has replaceable op amp sockets that allow you to switch out op amps and change the "voice" of the integrated. If it is too bright, you can start loading Burson V6 Vivid or Classic op amps to smooth out the sound.

ADD:  The Vincent Audio equipment is very excellent and refined sounding, but it is very warm sounding.  Great if that is what you want.
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