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Budget Office System Integrated for $1000 or less

Hey All, 

Getting a new office in a few weeks which gives me an excellent excuse to build another stereo system ( I had previously put myself on a 6 month moratorium from buying stereo gear but a new office means I MUST get a new stereo right?). I would like something with plenty of power in case I decide to drive my MMG's in the office but may also use some higher efficiency speakers/stand mounts at some point. A sub out or pre outs will be necessary, a remote would be nice. I want something pretty versatile which can handle difficult loads but will also play nice with sensitive speakers. 

Possible speakers that may be used: MMG's, Gallo 3.1's, Nola Brio trio clones, KEF LS50's

I tend to like my sound a little towards the clinical side with excellent detail, sound stage,  and bass grip.I listen to a lot of electronic, jazz, accoustic guitar, & chamber music.  I have been interested in the older Krell S300i, Peachtree Audio Nova 300(a little expensive even used at the moment but with excellent reviews), NuPrime IDA-16(though haven't seen one for around $1000), Wyred4Sound mINT, Wyred4sound sti-1000. 

As you can see I am not afraid of class D and actually appreciate the small footprint some could have. Something small would be great but standard size would work as well. Just want something versatile and reliable. I am not interested in tubes. What about Bryston?? I haven't heard any but must admit I love their warranty as it speaks to the build quality. 

Any and all direction and opinions are much appreciated. Thanks in advance!!



128x128birdfan
2psyop's avatar
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2psyop
1,612 posts
 
As an added note for the Powernode 2- It has a subwoofer out, if you think the PM1 speakers, or whatever your choice does not put out enough bass.
BTW your smartphone will be your control for your unit. Stream files, even MQA, via Tidal, Spotify or any streaming service. You can also play your digital audio files. I think it can do internet radio stations as well.... not sure.
willemj
1,036 posts
 
Is the $1000 for the whole system or just the electronics? If the latter, how about a Yamaha RN803d receiver? 2x100 watt should be enough in most situations, it has ample digital inputs, airplay, a sub out, a remote app, dlna compatibility in case you want to play from a NAS, and as icing on the cake inbuilt room eq.
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perkadin
286 posts
 
I am using the original Krell 300i.  Bags of power, plenty of bass, but its very different from the Krell s300i.  The older Krell has a more vintage sound, with an emphasis on the bottom end, like their Class A amps from that era.  The s300i sounds wider, more open, but also a little artificial and thin at times.  That might be a plus though given the type of music you listen to.  They are both pretty easy to find used. Stay away from metal dome tweeters and you should be ok.  The 300i mates well w/ the older Dynaudio Contour and Audience range from my experience. I've been told Krell is also a great match w/ Maggies.  
wolf_garcia
6,711 posts
 
If I was a cartoonist, I'd draw a cartoon of a dude at a desk with Magnapans on it towering over him. Or gigantic horn loaded speakers sitting on that desk…I would…really...
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