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Getting started, need amp recommendation

I recently tossed out my 15 year old Pioneer speakers and stepped up to a gently used pair of Paradigm Mini Monitors. BIG improvement! Needless to say, these are a bit more revealing of the (lack of) quality of my other components. Next on the chopping block is my old Kenwood receiver. I have been looking into units from NAD, Rotel, and the Acurus DIA-100. In the sub $400 price range, has anyone got a recommendation for a used integrated amp or possibly receiver for a newbie with mini monitors? This is my first foray outside Circuit City-level of components, and I would appreciate some guidance. I like the detailed nature of the Paradigms, but I can imagine that a bright sounding amp could get a little annoying with them. Maybe it's just the contrast with my previous speakers that I hear.
Thanks!
exp_gort
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
You will probably get your share of posts here. I suggest you make use of the Audiogon search engine. Each time you see an amp that might interest you, enter it into the discussion search engine and you will visit many threads with lots of commentary on your question. Many threads will lead you to other products which, in turn could use another search.

You will probably need to decided if you want to stick with a receiver or go with seperates. Then comes the ever-running tube vs. solid state(I am a "tube" guy, myself)

Good luck, and have fun.
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
If you can get by w/o a remote look into the Jolida 301 int. amp. Don't let the size fool you. (Wonderful sounding. Pre-amp stage uses 2 ECC 83 tubes) If you decide to go w/a
solid state int. amp the NAD C-350/Marantz PM series would be fine choices. Another possible choice would be a Kora "Explorer" hybrid int. amp. (A dealer is selling a demo @ a very reasonable cost. Down to Earth Audio in Salem, Va. 24153.) Good Luck!
brainwater
520 posts
 
sub 400 $ range is asking alot. Good bang for the buck is the Rotel .
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