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Rega Brio or...?

I have a 3-year old Pro-Ject Debut Carbon (which has an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge) and a set of Tannoy Revolution R3 floor standing speakers (6-Ohm, 89dB). Currently, I am using a cheap Behringer phono amp and a Sonos Connect:Amp. I wish to upgrade to an analogue integrated amp so that I have an analogue signal path. I listen to a variety of different types of music and the room has a vaulted ceiling and has glass at either end. I do not need high volumes for extended periods of time. My budget is under $1,000 including a phono stage. Finally, I’m partial to a British manufacturer to “keep it in the family” so to speak (though I realize that only my speakers are British :) )

I’m leaning towards the Rega Brio (2017 version). I’ve considered the Creek Evolution 50A, but this will break my budget especially when I add a phono amp, unless I can find a used example.

Thanks for any thoughts!
128x128gromitinwa
samac's avatar
samac
499 posts
 
I bet the Rega would be great but since you put "or" in your heading I'll suggest the one I have and love; the Arcam A19.

Although it's discontinued Arcam still has it on their website and I bet you could get a great deal on one.

It sounds fantastic and the functionality is top drawer. The volume control is one of the best I've used.

Good luck in your search.

Merry Christmas,

Scott

http://https//www.upscaleaudio.com/products/arcam-a19-integrated-amplifier

noromance's avatar
noromance
9,769 posts
 
Rega. Or save for a Croft Integrated.
reubent
6,979 posts
 
The current Rega Brio has been very well received. I've read lots of good things about it and never any negative press that I've seen. I own the Rega Elicit-R which is a couple of steps up the Rega family ladder. It is outstanding IMHO. If the Brio shares the same house sound, its a winner.

smrex13
645 posts
 
Just a word of caution - take a look at the Amazon reviews of the Rega Brio.  There are several comments about hum/buzz issues.  There's also a recent post here about the same thing.  The previous version, the Brio-R, also seemed to have some noise issues.  It may or may not be a problem in your setup, but it's something to keep in mind.  
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks. I had not thought to check Amazon for reviews. Higher end audio is not something that I associate with Amazon.
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