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Mid-Fi Integrated Amps?

So I'm slowly moving up the stereo food-chain and I am seeking suggestions. I purchased a pair of PSB Synchrony 1B speakers and a Sony xa5400ES CD player. I'm using an older Denon receiver that is my next piece to be replaced. I'm thinking an integrated amp in the 100-150 watts range or thereabouts to get the best out of my speakers. My budget is around $1500 and the contestants so far are an NAD C275bee, the Anthem 225, and the Cambridge 840A. Their are 2 Anthem dealers reasonably close, but neither has the 225 as a demo. The other two I've listened to, but not in my system yet. I'm looking for suggestions from those that have long-term listening with Synchrony speakers or other amps within my budget that I've overlooked. Thanks
pdj
meiwan
399 posts
 
Definitely look at Creek Destiny (2), Exposure 3010s (2). Both are over your budget new but can be had used for what you are willing to pay. The PSB's will thank you.
If you want new, have a look at the Creek Evolution 5350 and the Exposure 2010s2.
mmike84
309 posts
 
$1500 used on Audiogone would go a lot farther. I'd look for an Ayre Ax-7e but they will be more like $1700-ish. I would not worry that it's not enough power, but anotehr option would be a Plinius 9100. In either event you'd be moving beyond mid-fi.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
anthem 225
4musica44107
520 posts
 
A 2nd vote for the Anthem 225. Superb SS integrated, priced unbelievably low for the sonic performance and features if offers. Built like a tank as is all Anthem gear. And Sonic Frontiers is a great company to deal with in the event you need service or have technical questions.
macd
103 posts
 
I cannot vouch for the Anthem, but have spend a good amount of time with NAD. They are truly amazing for their price. Mike84 brings up a good point, you could put that 1500 dollars in a used piece if that is your budget or buy the NAD or Anthem used and pocket the money for other upgrades. Although 1500 could get you an intergrad from plinius, sim audio, classe, cary, cj, etc....the NAD will give you a good taste of high end...for not a high price!

If it was me I would spend 400-450 on a used NAD c272 and get a nice litte tubed preamp from AES(cary) or conrad johnson (500-700). It would take a good amount of money to outclass this combo IMO
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