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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
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.
smrex13
645 posts
 
There are only 6 reviews, but four have significant complaints. Three complain of hum issues and one had a noisy volume control.  I'd make sure that you buy it from a place that has a liberal return policy just to be safe.  No one complains about the sound quality, though. It's certainly getting great reviews on that basis.

smrex13
645 posts
 
By the way, I have heard the Arcam A19 and thought it was a very refined sound for its price.  You might also look at Marantz and Yamaha in the $1000 and under range for integrated amps with a phono stage.  I know they're not British, but they have their adherents.  
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks smrex13. Yes the reviews are disturbing. Perhaps a case of “if you get a good one it’s great, if not...”

Samac - thanks for th Arcam suggestion. I did not realize that the Arcam A19 has been discontinued. It still shows on their website and retailers are pricing it at $995.

Any thoughts on the Creek 50A? I’d need to add a Phono amp or their module but I’ve found a mint used one for around $550.
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