I had 2C sigs years ago and was also in the hunt for an integrated that would be just right in a small den area. I home auditioned or owned several integrateds with these, including CJ CAV50 (tube), Musical Fidelity A5, Krell S300i and CJ CA200. Of all these, I liked the sound of the Musical Fidelity the most. It provided good dynamics and bass but still kept the mids sweet. The tubed CAV50 sounded next best, but couldn’t provide the dynamics and bass I wanted. Still, it was great for lower level classical and jazz listening as its midrange was the best of the bunch. If I were in a similar situation today I would also audition Bryston, Manley (Stingray), NAD, Creek and Moon. Hope this helps.
Integrated recommendation with Vandersteen 2C
System is in second bedroom. Perhaps no ideal for 2C’s, but it is what it is. They are approx 12-16” from back wall and 7ft apart. I sit 7ft away. Room is 11x14ish. Budget is $1,000 or less. Maybe up to $1,200 if there is a significant jump in performance. Music I listen to is electronic, rock and pop. Some classical, but not a lot. I’ve been thinking maybe a Creek Destiny? Or perhaps, Krell S300i? Not KAV-300i. Just recently sold it, along with the matching 250cd player. KAV-300i way too bassy. Need something open and detailed with low bass detail, but balanced. Read the Creek Destiny review on Stereophile and it favors very well in being neutral, clean and very transparent. Speaker cable is Mogami 3082. Also have AQ CV-4 if needed in the end. Interconnects are mogami as well.
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You have already been down this road in your identical subject matter thread in 2018 with a lengthy 34 author contributions. https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/best-sounding-budget-integrated-amp-for-vandersteen-2c “..... Best sounding "budget" integrated amp for Vandersteen 2C. Looking for the best sounding "budget" integrated amp for use with an Vandersteen 2C (1980’s version) speakers. CD source alternates between a Sony PS1 and Cal Audio Icon II Power Boss. Budget is roughly $300, maybe up to $400. I’ve been thinking something from NAD, but with all the different models out there, I have no idea which models are the best sounding--regardless of power. It will also need to have a phono stage. I’d like to have a remote too, but it’s not a deal breaker. My system is in a second bedroom, so even though I like to crank every once in a while, most of the time I'm listening at reasonable levels. My listening tastes consists of stuff like Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Tangerine Dream, etc.jsbach168507-23-2018 8:26am |
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