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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
fataxeman
5 posts
 
Parasound Halo Integrated - 160 watts, phono stage, sub adjustment control on the front.  BIG bang for the buck.  Great reviews!  I didn't research the price on your other choices but the Parasound is $2500 new and probably underpriced.

I haven't bought one...yet.
miyu
11 posts
 
LFD LE of almost any vintage (LE V+ is the current version).  Just amazing.  Super stripped down and frill-free, all the effort went into the sound.  It will mate super well with the Vandersteen2c's.  Only 2 distributors in the US, they are easy to find.
jmac7's avatar
jmac7
54 posts
 
You should add the LineMagnetic508IA to your list. Mine seems to sound better every time I light it up..
djengan
46 posts
 
patrickdowns2audioconnection "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.


And the Specs. of the amplifier are well kept secret.
Would you buy an Amp. based on reviews from the people who are affiliate with the dealer and the manufacturer.
max53
4 posts
 
JS,

4425's suggestion was good to me: Naim has made a lot of Naits (Naim Integrateds) and in your case I would suggest two very different solutions: a Nait3 – could take some time to find one on the 2nd hand market, but complements your CD3.5 perfectly, is a lively and serious little amp that drives anything, just leaning on the 'cheerful' side; or a SuperNait, first generation: it is solid and authoritative, can be found for very reasonable sums and has a more than decent DAC on board, that might come in handy sometimes.
As an alternative, a Nait XS, a little more mannered and shy in the bass but with a great capacity of looking into the inner details of music.

I have been a Naim user for decades so sorry for my monochromatic replies...

Max 
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