2. amps-preamps
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Advice on New Integrated Amplifier

I need some advice on cleaning up my current system, which is:

Integrated Amplifier: Creek 5350 SE (with phono card)
Turntable: Roksan Radius 5
Loudspeakers: Totem Arro
Digital: iTunes/Spotify via wifi only

I am having a problem with the Creek. One channel drops out (scratchy for a bit then gone) intermittently. I emailed Mike Creek about it, posted on these forums before, and conducted research. It seems the ribbon connectors need to be cleaned frequently. Mike Creek said to open the unit and blow out the female receptacles. That didn't work too well so I used compressed air and deoxit. I've done this 3 times in 18 months. So, every six months I need to crack open this integrated to keep it working. Ugh.

I took the unit to a local repair shop in Chicago. They could find nothing wrong with it. Go figure. They were not interested in hardwiring each of the 16 pin connectors involved. Neither am I and I'm not too bad with a soldering iron.

So, I'm likely in need an integrated amplifier. I'm thinking that I need the following:

- < $2k in cost (new or used)
- Decent ability to drive 4-6 ohm loads
- A & B speaker outs because I drive a main set (Totem Arros) and another in my office (Monitor Audio in ceiling units)

I may also think about upgrading my Totem Arros to Tannoy Revolution XT 6Fs (http://tannoy.com/residential/#!products_1547)

I listen to a broad spectrum of music including:

Rock/Pop
Blues/Folk
Jazz

I would really appreciate the advice of forum users! PS: I bought the Creek used from Audiogon and have had issues since I got it so there's no warranty for me. I love the sound of it and its simplicity.
128x128jbhiller
smrex13
645 posts
 
I think that question was for me. Yes, I've had the Exposure 2010s2, the NAD 375BEE, and the Rogue Sphinx.

I thought the Exposure was a very nice amp - refined sound, clear, musical. However, I had it paired with the KEF LS50s, and it didn't quite have the power to drive them. I later came to realize that I didn't like the KEFs, but I had already sold the Exposure.

The Sphinx really didn't work out well for me. I thought the initial sound was somewhat artificial, and I had problems with hum issues. It didn't stay very long, so I don't know how it would have sounded after the tubes burned in a bit.

Frankly, the NAD was the most enjoyable of the three. I know that NAD sometimes gets a bad rap, but the 375BEE was really a good amp. It has a metal bridge between the pre out and the power in. When I replaced that with a good set of ICs, the sound took a huge jump (it was already pretty good). It has tremendous control of the bass, and a very open, non-fatiguing presentation. I think it's overlooked due to prejudices against NAD and the fact that most people demo it without replacing the metal jumpers.

Just my 2 cents. YMMV.

Best, Scott
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,318 posts
 
For Jbhiller - Jb, what kind/model number of Naim gear did you audition with the Forests? Thanks.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,437 posts
 
Timrhu,

I would certainly consider selling you the Creek. It's in 8/10 condition.

I can send you the information on the Alps switch that I bought from Creek. It should be here in Chicago (shipping from London) this week.

It needs the switch installed and new ribbon cable, which I have. But the ribbon connection pins are a bit worn. I think it needs a new connector soldered in. They are cheap, but I'm not sure how to do that. And, I'm not sure how to solder the switch in either.

I called some folks and got quotes from $200 range, +/-.

I can send you pics, my telephone, etc. I really love the amp, but would consider selling.

Can you private message me? If not my email is jameshiller@mac.com.
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,318 posts
 
Jb- Would you please provide details about the Naim gear you auditioned with the Forests? Thanks in advance.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,437 posts
 
It was Naim separates--preamplfier and amp. Pretty pricey..somewhere north of $5/7k for both, maybe more.

Very nice stuff. Something I missed with the Naim stuff that I get from my Creek.

I received my Alps switch from Creek today. $150 and I'm going to have to install it. I'm thinking of hiring a pro and having her clean things up and check the bias. I may buy a Creek EVO 100A and later sell the 5350se. It's such a great box in great shape.
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