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Need help with Integrated vs preamp/amp

Hi, I am new here and back into audio. I moved into a condo awhile back and sold all my higher end stuff and bought a Denon AV received with KEF surrounds and that was my system. I did keep my Legacy Classic speakers in hopes of one day rekindling my obsession.

So here I am starting again.

I have been doing somer research and have always been interested in the Acurus and Aragon stuff. I am thinking about a used DIA 100 mk2 integrated amp in the $350 range. Then I started looking at a RL 10 preamp with an A150 or A250 amp that I would have reworked with Ken Ealey. That looks like it will cost me around $1400. Then I thought I am going to need a DAC anyways, so why not look at the NAD C375 BEE with optional DAC. Used I can find this around $900. There is my dilemma. I'll be honest, the $1400 is a bit more than I want to spend right now, but I can do that in stages, buying the preamp and amp before mods is around $550-$650 which is more reasonable.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
stalbrecht
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
I for one am a big fan of Acurus amps and have owned at twelve of them.  All have been rock solid with no issues at all and I find them very musical(not warm but neutral), punchy bass/midbass, and very detailed.  On the other hand, the NAD 375BEE plus an outboard DAC is a good option if "bang for your buck" is near the top of your list.

Bill
jl35
3,977 posts
 
If you're looking for an all in one, Hegel states their digital sections are upgradeable, and can be had used under your price range. 
mesch
3,476 posts
 
With a ~$1000 budget I would go the route of an integrated amp and separate DAC. I have a system that includes the NAD 526BEE with a used Music Fidelity V-DAC II. There is a used V-Link II on sale here at AG for $150. I think it would make for a great DAC/$$$, allowing  for greater budget allocation towards the integrated. Find an integrated amp you can live with over the long haul, DACs can be swapped out taking advantage of the used market. I have bought several here on AG. Good luck in your quest.  
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
Outlaw RR2150...Music Direct $699 and you can return it if you don't like it and get maybe a Jolida if tubes do it for ya!
ebm
9,311 posts
 
A good preamp/amp is always better.

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