Hi Jet -
Have you listened to any of these amplifiers, as that would help immensely or are you like many of us, where it is difficult and impractical to audition the amps?
I have owned products from all three manufacturers. I have not heard these amps, but I have strong initial impressions.
Quality build and freedom from repair is key for me. So that would disqualify the Marantz, as it is made in Vietnam. This may seem irrational on my part, but Vietnam is not well known for serious electronics.
The NAD @ 50 wpc seems ridiculously low powered for a Class D amp. I own a Class D amp from another manufacturer and am happy with it, so not a Class D hater. I have had a NAD amplifier go bad after a few years of use and getting it fixed was not fun. If I went with a NAD, it would not be this model, there are others which I think are better.
You have already disqualified the Cambridge with two of your comments ... like, but not love the Topaz and not wanting a more souped up version of the Topaz. So, not sure why it is on your list.
So, I would not go with any of the 3 amplifiers that you have listed.
There is one obvious choice that is missing from everything that you have written, but I will honor your request not to add more to the mix. I have 10 years plus experience with the product. If you would like another name to consider, please ask.
Rich
Have you listened to any of these amplifiers, as that would help immensely or are you like many of us, where it is difficult and impractical to audition the amps?
I have owned products from all three manufacturers. I have not heard these amps, but I have strong initial impressions.
Quality build and freedom from repair is key for me. So that would disqualify the Marantz, as it is made in Vietnam. This may seem irrational on my part, but Vietnam is not well known for serious electronics.
The NAD @ 50 wpc seems ridiculously low powered for a Class D amp. I own a Class D amp from another manufacturer and am happy with it, so not a Class D hater. I have had a NAD amplifier go bad after a few years of use and getting it fixed was not fun. If I went with a NAD, it would not be this model, there are others which I think are better.
You have already disqualified the Cambridge with two of your comments ... like, but not love the Topaz and not wanting a more souped up version of the Topaz. So, not sure why it is on your list.
So, I would not go with any of the 3 amplifiers that you have listed.
There is one obvious choice that is missing from everything that you have written, but I will honor your request not to add more to the mix. I have 10 years plus experience with the product. If you would like another name to consider, please ask.
Rich