2. amps-preamps
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Pls advise on budget integrated or pre/power comb.

Currently using Rotel (RC-1070/RB-1080) set-up with JM Labs 816s towers with audioquest cable. Marantz SA-8260 on the front end. Right now the system is a little "too bright". I listen to Jazz ( Miles, Wes Montgomery to Spyra Gyra) some R&B. Looking at Audio Refinement Complete but worried about the power. My Rotel put 200 wpc I might miss if I go to an integrated.
james3
scarlsson
5 posts
 
Jolida JD 801A tube integrated, 70 watts. One heck of an amp. The brightness is more likely the Rotel and/or the Marantz than the room, and at nearly 92 dB efficiency, your speakers don't need big power.
james3 OP
6 posts
 
I'm curious about the Jolida I have dealer in the area. I will be checking realtraps.com & rivesaudio.com too. I've read some good things about the older Plinius models. But I'm still leaning towards the Audio Refinement I'll keep it on my short list. Thanks !!!
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
I would change IC's and speaker wires first. Also power cords. If that doesn't do the trick, you might consider new spks. which are more warmer and better suited to your tastes. Or, work around your spks. and get new electronics.
Hope things work out! Good Luck.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
I owned both the Audio Refinement Complete integrated and the Audio Refinement Complete Alpha CD player a while ago. When I sold the amp reget was immediate. It had a very smooth sound and was a joy to use; a real quality product. The cd player however never excited me. Not sure how it would stack up against the bigger Rotel. Good luck.
robm321
932 posts
 
I agree with Warnerwh. Before upgrading components, I'd try to add some room treatment to tame the brightness. Just use comforters/blankets on the walls to see if it makes a difference before you invest in acoustic treatment.

Rob
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