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Cambridge Audio Azure vs. NAD c320bee, c740

I need to replace my 20 year old Rotel receiver, which just stopped working. I have Mordaunt Short Pageant 2 speakers of the same age and a Rotel RCD950 CD player which is more recent. I also have Grado HP1000 headphones. I would like to spend under $400 and will consider pre-owned or refurbished units. I have narrowed down the choices to the NAD c320bee, cambridge audio Azur 640a or 540a integrated amps, or the NAD c740 receiver. Is the nad c320bee significantly better sounding than the c740? (if not, I would get the receiver to have the tuner capability). Are either/both cambridge amps better than the NADs? Finally, are the headphone capabilities significantly different between these models? Thank you in advance for your input.
hopecountryboy
tombowlus
416 posts
 
How does the Azure 640C compare to its preceeding model? I just had a chance to audition the prior model Caimbridge integrated and CD player (not sure of model numbers on either), and was fairly impressed. But the dealer isn't offering much of a discount. I've heard so many good things about the new one, that I'd hate to miss the boat by getting the older model. But, if it's pretty close, then I should be able to arrange a decent deal.

Thanks, Tom.
joemazzaglia
19 posts
 
The 640c is still an improvement over the previous model. It just received another 5-star rating from "What Hi-Fi" in the UK.

I have heard this unit, and it compares favorably (favorably, not 100%) to the Musical Fidelity, or the new Rotel that TAS raves about (can't remember model no.?) I had a chance to audition the Rotel and the Cambridge A/B at the local dealer. I would not drop the extra $289 on a Rotel, unless I was also worried about shelf-appeal. The Rotel is a big, beefy s.o.b., but does not exceed the 640c by more than a hair. Bass definition is a bit BETTER in the 640c, but from midrange-up, the Rotel might have a small avantage.

As for the old Cambridge, you can look around on the web, and find one for peanuts.It is still quite good, but can't compare to the 640.

The 640 is my next buy, even though I own a $2000 d-a-c.

-Joe
tombowlus
416 posts
 
Thanks for the information. I ended up picking up a used Arcam FMJ A22 for myself (got it for a song), but I am recommending the 640C for my father, who is looking to upgrade from his old Pioneer receiver.

Tom.
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
Hey just writing back,whats wrong with the sa250? I just bought one of these,there is no going back to Rotel Nad Cam they dont even come close to the Sonographe ,did I say not even close,you absolutely get what you pay for.I have a sa250 sono preamp,and a Arcam cd 92,The cd player I bought for 700 and it is worth every penny,anything else I listened sounded like listening through mud ,Al
coffeey's avatar
coffeey
363 posts
 
Hey all I can say if your cj stuff is up for sale,you need to check out your other stuff,or stick with the mid fi,its not high end,Al
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