2. amps-preamps
  3. 129286-10135

Best integrated from this list...

Below is a list of what I am considering. My source is a Naim CD3.5 and speakers are Vandersteen 2c. Cabling is DH Labs Q-10 speaker and Air Matrix interconnects. My system is an a second bedroom that is 12x14, with a non-slopped 5x5 dormer section. The Vandys sound great in that room and I have them placed according to the owner's manual. The Vandys have a more laid back sound and the CD3.5 blends well with them as it is on the fuller side, yet still has deep, punchy bass and crisp airy highs. I guess to keep the synergy, I'm looking for an integrated on the neutral side--especially in the mids. A swing either way will throw-off the balance I assume. I definitely want an integrated with extended bass response and detail, yet still have punch/slam. Considering the room size, I can operate anything within the 50-100wpc range. Another option is to go separates. A local audio buddy of mine has a McIntosh MC-502 for sale that I could run the CD3.5 direct as it has L & R volume controls on the front. This would only be until I could get a preamp.

1. Creek "Classic" 5350SE
2. Classe CAP-101
3. Musical Fidelity M3si
4. Arcam A19, A85, or equivalent/better.
5. Simaudio Moon i1/250i
6. McIntosh MC-502 (CD3.5 direct until preamp)
7. Other possibilities???
jsbach1685
patrickdowns's avatar
patrickdowns
513 posts
 
audioconnection "The Belles Aria offers a superb match with Vandies"

I am curious why Belles seems to be a well-kept secret. They have few dealers, and don't get reviewed much. The reviews I have read are excellent. It's curious.

addyson815
240 posts
 
"ADCOM GFA 555 (any generation $300-$350 used) and the ADCOM GFP 565 preamp ($300 or so used) these two pieces sold for $1000 amp/$800 preamp. This would be special with those speakers and would save you some $$ too. The preamp has a good MM phono section too. Together with those speakers the sound will be tight, bass will be deep and controlled with a huge wide soundstage with great extended highs and beautiful
midrange that will move you"

I can't see any Adcom gear especially what was mentioned having a huge, wide soundstage. If that was the case it would be mentioned more in the forums and would be the flavor of the week.


tdimler
132 posts
 
I had a MF M6si for a couple years and thought it was excellent.....I imagine the M3si would be the same.  Among the other suggestions made here I think it would be hard to go wrong with Ayre.
herndonb
124 posts
 
<Krell dealer disclaimer>
The Krell Vanguard Integrated is a detailed, open, with a big soundstage and great balance.  It drives anything too.  It's the best sounding integrated Krell has ever built.  Good luck with your search.  :-)  
redmosessc
14 posts
 
A couple months ago i purchased a used Classe CAP-150 from my local hifi shop, i replaced an old Rotel 985BX integrated, i know it was to sound better but it totally blew me away. Wide and deep sound stage, plenty of power and amazing build quality. After literally over 100 hours of listening, I would highly recommend them, especially because you can find one for ~$1K
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