Looking to upgrade amp, need help.


I am currently looking to upgrade my amplifier. My current system is:
Focal 836v's
NAD C375Bee
NAD C546 cd player
Project debut carbon with Ortofon 2m bronze

I listen to both vinyl and CD's. Mostly classic rock but also a wide variety of music at times.  

My budget is $1500-$2000, probably purchase used to get more bang for my buck. I don't have a preference between SS or tubes, but don't have experience with tubes (but think they would be a good match for the Focals).

Any input is greatly appreciated!!

Thanks,

Joel
jmdavidson87
There's an Esoteric AI-03 up for sale for $2K that should sound better than the NAD. You have lots of options with that budget and it just depends on what aspects of your current system you're trying to improve. A better DAC or cartridge, or even room treatment might give you the best incremental improvement. Just need to find the weakest link.
The Jolida has no phono stage. My friend owns an older Cronus Magnum ( 50 watt) that uses EL34 tubes and it is real nice. There are plenty of dealers that sell Rogue. You should find one that has a return policy in case you don’t like it! Your speakers have a 90 db sensitivity ,so if you find an older one ( 50 watt ) it should be enough power for your speakers. BTW, there are some used ones listed right here on AudiogoN !
Your speakers have 92db sensitivity, 40-50 watts will be more than adequate.  When your speakers hit 101db, you are still only using 8 watts!
My room is smaller, my listening position is 10 feet away from my speakers which are rated at 89db sensitivity.  I have driven them with a 35 watt Primaluna amp with no problems.  At a minimum, try a nice tube preamp/ss amp combo with the focals.

@jmdavidson87 - Add the Rega Elicit-R to your list. It's a really great solid state integrated amp and slips in right in the middle of your proposed budget for a nice second hand unit. I've had lots of solid state, as well as tube, amplifiers over the years. I'm completely content with the Rega. It also has a good sounding phono stage built in. I have the Pro-Ject Carbon Debut DC Esprit SB with the original Ortofon 2M Red and it sounds fantastic through the Rega Elicit-R.

@nutty - We should have an integrated amp shootout sometime. BTW, I had the Anthem Integrated 1 and Anthem Integrated 2 in the past. I liked the Integrated 2, but unfortunately the volume control did not have enough steps and it was too loud at minimum volume and the steps were way too far apart with my relatively efficient speakers. Both sounded good, just didn't work for my situation.