@millercarbon - thanks for the Raven Nighthawk referral - I'll add to my radar
@willgolf - thanks for backing up @millercarbon Raven Nighthawk referral - multiple voices increases credibility beyond a single often subjective opinion
@johnwahl
Most audiophiles start with modest systems then gradually over time purchase/trade up. But for me high-end audio is a bucket list item that I started working on starting in 2016 since I'm north of the century mark. My goal was biggest bang for the buck while maximizing sound quality. I've combed through all the Stereophile and TAS component recommendations and extensively through online reviews and forums. I've also checked out local and not so local audio stores and a few audio shows.
Because I'm analytical and a bit OCD, I've created an extensive 100+ tab spreadsheet of audio components with my research findings (stats, notes, review sources...) including a tab for Integrated Amps ranging from $700 to $50k.
PM me if you want a copy of this Integrated Amp tab or the entire spreadsheet.
For $2-3k:
I agree that getting an integrated not only saves you from extra cabling expense, it's cheaper to make than separates and thus the vast majority of times is the best bang-for-buck. However, don't rule out separates because you may find that super rare deal.
I believe your "all-or-nothing" mentality is causing you stress. I suggest buying used so you can sell/trade with minimal $ spent and allows you to try different components which could be essential to your sonic bliss.
One used separate that I'll recommend based on numerous online reviews and which I saw a a few audio shows is the Audio Alchemy (now under Elac Alchemy) DDP1 Preamp + DPA1 Amp designed by Peter Madnick of Constellation Audio fame. Whether or not you need, the DDP1 Preamp has a built in decent (for the $) DAC and if desired, you can upgrade the sound with the optional PS-5 Power Supply.
Although @millercarbon (whose posts I've often read and respect based on his knowledge and experience) Raven Nighthawk would likely get you excellent results, at 20wpc would not scratch your "is higher power better?" itch. I suggest you buy used so you can try out several "high power amps" to see what your speakers would do and if you like the sound/change. Your path may even eventually lead you towards a Raven Nighthawk.
Good luck on your audio journey.
Kenny
@willgolf - thanks for backing up @millercarbon Raven Nighthawk referral - multiple voices increases credibility beyond a single often subjective opinion
@johnwahl
Most audiophiles start with modest systems then gradually over time purchase/trade up. But for me high-end audio is a bucket list item that I started working on starting in 2016 since I'm north of the century mark. My goal was biggest bang for the buck while maximizing sound quality. I've combed through all the Stereophile and TAS component recommendations and extensively through online reviews and forums. I've also checked out local and not so local audio stores and a few audio shows.
Because I'm analytical and a bit OCD, I've created an extensive 100+ tab spreadsheet of audio components with my research findings (stats, notes, review sources...) including a tab for Integrated Amps ranging from $700 to $50k.
PM me if you want a copy of this Integrated Amp tab or the entire spreadsheet.
For $2-3k:
I agree that getting an integrated not only saves you from extra cabling expense, it's cheaper to make than separates and thus the vast majority of times is the best bang-for-buck. However, don't rule out separates because you may find that super rare deal.
I believe your "all-or-nothing" mentality is causing you stress. I suggest buying used so you can sell/trade with minimal $ spent and allows you to try different components which could be essential to your sonic bliss.
One used separate that I'll recommend based on numerous online reviews and which I saw a a few audio shows is the Audio Alchemy (now under Elac Alchemy) DDP1 Preamp + DPA1 Amp designed by Peter Madnick of Constellation Audio fame. Whether or not you need, the DDP1 Preamp has a built in decent (for the $) DAC and if desired, you can upgrade the sound with the optional PS-5 Power Supply.
Although @millercarbon (whose posts I've often read and respect based on his knowledge and experience) Raven Nighthawk would likely get you excellent results, at 20wpc would not scratch your "is higher power better?" itch. I suggest you buy used so you can try out several "high power amps" to see what your speakers would do and if you like the sound/change. Your path may even eventually lead you towards a Raven Nighthawk.
Good luck on your audio journey.
Kenny