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Return to Audio: What Products to Consider?

Hi, I'm getting back into audio and I'm curious what amplification products this forum would recommend. For criteria, here's what I would list; very good sound (of course), warm rather than analytical, but not muddy or bright, of good, long-lasting quality, from a manufacturer with integrity, costing a few grand or less (I don't always equate quality with price), to be used with classical, folk, world, bluegrass, jazz, electronica music. Mostly low-level listening, with some higher volume (those first few watts should really count) with CD source. I want something to be proud of for me, not for my ego. I want to escape into the music, not hear the equipment. What would you recommend here? Thank you!
andrewb450
andrewb450 OP
3 posts
 
I've actually heard Naim mentioned quite a bit in my queries. I also picked up a copy of Listener magazine (recommended to me) and they cover the Naim 32.5 preamp as a tremendous value in vintage hi-fi. They seem quirky enough for me to like them.
gold001
30 posts
 
I agree with lugnut. You can't go wrong with that Naim 32/160 pre-power combo for $660. You can get a nice Rega Planet CD player for under $400. Pair this with your choice of inexpensive speakers and you've got a wonderful system. Rega, B&W, Linn, Mission, all make some nice inexpensive speakers that are suposed to sound good with Naim gear.

The nice thing about the old Naim gear is that the value is stabilized. The values are even starting to rise on some items. I think this is due to the fact the Naim still services every model, no matter how old.

-Patrick
lugnut
1,190 posts
 
Andrew,

I forgot to mention you would need another NAP 160 for the active arrangement. Still, it would be inexpensive, killer sound.

Happy listening,
Patrick
stenersr
84 posts
 
I would definitely consider Ayre because new they are over $3K but you can find them here for just over $1K. I bought mine new and have done the upgrades. They are super quiet and have exactly the sound characteristics you are looking for. You can listen to it all day long.
jeffloistarca
1,004 posts
 
I suspect Naim is overlooked cuz their stuff is ugly and appears to be mid-fi (I know better, just an observation though). Linn...so many folks are anti-Linn for a few reasons. Ivor is an insufferable egotistical moron, and many Linn owners have drank the Koolaid and refuse to acknowledge there is anything else worth owning. The arrogance is turn-off. For what it's worth I would suggest you give YBA or BAT a listen, they tend to have a warmer sound. Solid state with a pseudo-tube presentation.
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