Looking to buy a quality integrated $10,000 budget.


I’m at the point now I’m happy with my speakers, Klipsch La Scala AL5 at 105db sensitivity or there about and 8ohm load. I really don’t need big power. Unfortunately many integrated, as you go up the companies lines, keep adding power and not much else I’m not really into paying for something I’ll never use.

I do not need a DAC built in, I do not need a phono stage built in but I would not count them out if they were good quality and I could reduce the box load. So if I replace them I would need something as good inside the integrated as the Gold Note PH10 phono stage and Schiit Gungnir multi bit DAC that I currently use.

Sources are; Garrard 301 table set up with Jelco 12"arm and Van Den Hull Cart (and a Soundsmith MI), PC based streamer, multi disc player and Apple TV 4K (all the digital goes into the DAC) and a tuner (I like the Seattle NPR radio, Jazz 24).

I’m so far considering in Tube or SS class A (preferably but wont rule others out):

- Luxman 590axii, class A 30wpc. this is a top choice for me right now. change my mind?
- Luxman Tube integrated like the LX 380
- Accuphase E 650 (used-older as USA prices are overpriced mind you I can get it cheaper in Canada so may not be an issue),
- McIntosh MAC 7200, more power then I’ll ever need but many features like a tuner, phono stage etc. so could go to one box but what’s the compromise with all that inside?
- BAT VK801 and others never heard a BAT (recommended from a friend) so not sure, I don’t have anywhere near me to listen so don’t say go listen.
- Sungden but I have to admit I find them homely and a little basic looking.
- Triode Labs and Finale Audio (great gear by the way) I’ve considered (again) but I really want a remote and need more then 3 inputs.
- Pass labs class A if I can find one used and in my budget.
- Decware and the other smaller tube amps are also in the back of my head.
- what am I forgetting or don’t know that’s the question?

Sound is paramount but it has to appeal to me looks-function wise as well, I just can not look at a homely integrated regardless of the sound. Also I really want a remote this time around! If I kept both DAC and Phono stages I could go (partially) balanced but my tuner is single ended so its not important to me. Also I would like to stay away from Chinese production for now. Recently used ( newer then 10 years) or New is what I’m thinking.

I’m kind of trending away from tubes just tired of replacing them, 300b’s no way ever again. I Live in an open concept Loft so my main system does everything TV-movies-music. I also tend to have my system on playing from 4pm to midnight through the week and all day and night weekends (when I’m home of course) so my system gets lots of use this is why I’m thinking tubes may be done in my audio life maybe we will see.

I do not like the looks of Mac’s sloped front integrated tube amps similar to AudioNotes new integrated I find that sloped face not to my tastes. AudioNote in general I find over priced for what you get. yes I’ve owned some.

I have listen to some Moon gear wasn’t for me. And Rega’s new stuff again not for me. Naim, Linn pass not for me, been there done that not my cup of tea. Vintage is for my bedroom so not here.

looking for;
Dynamics, good bass control but good separation of notes, sweet top end that’s not edgy or overly bright, midrange that’s involving, huge soundstage maybe the word musical comes to mind. I tend to a slightly warmer side of neutral but not too much. All types of music except classical. I don’t listen above 85db.

ok I think I’ve put enough in here for a reasonable response.

What amps should I consider in this price range new or used? one last thing I live in western Canada.

Glen



128x128glennewdick
Consider an AYRE AX-5 Twenty Series. A steal on the demo/used marketplace.

Happy Listening!
I will soon be selling my beloved Krell Vanguard Digital Integrated amplifier at a very tasty price.  Mint with all original packaging.  3years left on warranty!  Only letting it go because I got a Krell K 300i Digital.  The Vanguard is really close to the K300i sonically and offers an extra 50w/ch.  
In my experience, buying a good used integrated and having key parts and wiring upgraded by a competent technician is the most cost effective way to achieve true high end sound.  I prefer integrated amps because they take up less space and require fewer cables.  I've done this with five different integrated amps over the years and have been very satisfied with the results.  The two that I currently have - Unison S6 and Pathos TT RR were Stereophile "Class A" stock.  The unmodified Pathos TT as you may know is one of the best sounding and most highly regarded integrated amps ever made.  Yet all such components are built to a price point which means that they don't feature the highest quality capacitors, resistors, wire, etc.  Upgrading parts and wiring in both my Unison and Pathos amps resulted in dramatic improvements in sound - approaching  what I've heard from mega-buck separates.  The modified Pathos TT is "last amp I'll ever want" good unless I move to a new house and end up with a much larger listening room. Even then, I would be inclined to keep he amp and switch to much more efficient speakers.  If you check my Audiogon "Virtual Systems" page there is a photo of the modified internals of the Pathos TT which you can compare with the stock amp.  My goal  was to make it the best amp it could possibly be, which meant using world's best parts like the huge Dueland Cast PIO tinned copper capacitors, Bybee Music Rails, and Stage III Concepts hookup wire (among other high end components).  I spent about $7500 including the cost of the pre-owned Pathos amp.  I should note that I consulted with the Pathos factory during the upgrade process and they provided a number of helpful suggestions and recommendations. 
The new Krell K300i gets you there without mods...$8000 list so your Pathos wt upgrades at $7600 is about right!