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No frills balanced ss integrated amp?

Interested in what the membership recommends for a great sounding solid state integrated amp strictly for two channel audio.  Something that excels at the basics.  Parasound Halo seems well-regarded but the "no frills" modifier is included to try and avoid exactly such "all in one designs"; i.e., DON'T want something with DAC, phono pre, subwoofer control, tone controls, multi-channel output etc., etc..  Budget in the $2500-$3000 range.  Have a Hegel H200 now.  Don't ask why I'm thinking about another.  Not sure I can explain.  New preferred but would definitely consider used (esp., if still in production).  Thanks for the input.  
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skoczylas's avatar
skoczylas
240 posts
 
I’m not sure you will top the Hegel 200 in this price range for solid state. You will find slightly different flavors with the ones mentioned. The only thing I could think of that would be a different sound would be something like a first watt but it would depend on your speakers. Other ideas would be used Luxman or the high end Yamaha. 

Why not try new speakers or a tube amp if you really want a change? 
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse OP
4,306 posts
 
@skoczylas 
Appreciate the reality check.  You're kind of echoing the other half of the internal dialog about this (the Voice of Reason!).  My system is posted.  Needs a bit of updating as I sold off my tube gear.  Speakers are Totem Forests and Silverline Prelude Pluses.  I don't think my spouse would tolerate a third set.  The Preludes are pretty efficient, though.  They might work with an (SET?) type amp.  Something else to consider.  Thanks for your time and input.

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greginnh
382 posts
 
Gato AMP150.  
jperry
2,448 posts
 
The Sugden IA-4 Integrated Amplifier might be in your price range used.
joffres
5 posts
 
I've enjoyed a Naim Nait 5. But absolutely loved my Ayre Ax7e! 
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