2. amps-preamps
  3. 1008358616

Integrated for Dad

I'm looking to get an Integrated amp for my Father for under $1,000. I'm looking at Creek, Rega, etc. but haven't heard any but the Rega. Any recommendations would be helpful. Older used stuff would be great. The less he spends the better for him. We're definitely looking for best bang for the buck. He listens to mostly vocals, and Jazz, and has no desire for big bass. It would be teamed up with a modified Rotel 970 CD player and new Polk R25i speakers with Kimber 8TC. A phono stage would be best, but we can go external if need be.
revdog
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
The Creek 5350SE is an excellent unit, and while the MSRP is $1500 you might be able to get one used. The other integrated that I strongly recommend to you is the Bryston B-60. It's a bit more money that the Creek, but worth it given the 20-year warranty.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I'll also recommend the Audio Refinement Complete. The Bryston is very good. They'll need a phono stage. The Rotel RQ970 phono stage for under $200 is very good. The Creek 5350 mentioned has an optional plug in phono board.

The best bang for your buck would be a used Cambridge Audio A3i. It was designed by Michael Creek and comes with MM phono standard. They tend to be no more than $250 used. Cheapest way to get a Creek amp with phono. I love mine that I have kept since new and now use in my home office bedroom. It is a keeper.

sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I'll also recommend the Audio Refinement Complete. The Bryston is very good. They'll need a phono stage. The Rotel RQ970 phono stage for under $200 is very good. The Creek 5350 mentioned has an optional plug in phono board.

The best bang for your buck would be a used Cambridge Audio A3i. It was designed by Michael Creek and comes with MM phono standard. They tend to be no more than $250 used. Cheapest way to get a Creek amp with phono. I love mine that I have kept since new and now use in my home offce system. It is a keeper.

zonus
41 posts
 
bryston bp60.
joe_b
421 posts
 
I have an Audio Refinement Complete, but would only recommend using it with a very good front end and not with Kimber speaker cables. Also, it does not have a phono section. Suggest you audition an NAD integrated amp.
More to discover