2. amps-preamps
  3. 149094-122222

Help with picking new integrated for under 3k

Hi all, I'm seeking advice in purchasing a new integrated amplifier. Max budget is 3K. Slowly upgrading as I get more into the hobby.

Current set up is as follows:
Preamp  - Cambridge CXA 60 running as pre
Amp - Rotel RB 990BX
Phono Stage - Musical Surroundings Phonomena ii+
Speakers - Anthony Gallo Reference 3.1 
Turntable - VPI Aries Scout
Cartridge - Ortofon 2m Bronze
Interconnects - Audioquest Diamondback
Streamer - appleTV

80% of my critical listening is on the turntable but when I'm reading, have company over, and/or just hanging and don't want to get off the couch out I'll stream over my appleTV.

Presently strongly considering Parasound Halo Hint 6 and Musical Fidelity M6si. There's also a local listing for a Mcintosh MA6500 and a Hegel H3600 that I could probably get for around my budget, although the Hegel would be a bit of a stretch. So any thoughts on those two amps as well would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance. 
128x128sammyshaps
goheelz's avatar
goheelz
297 posts
 
If, like me, you're a "slowly upgrading" type person, why not consider a substantially upgraded amplifier to go with your Cambridge pre?  You mention McIntosh integrated, but if you're going to keep on upgrading, why stop there?  Have a look at, say, McIntosh stereo amplifiers, which are available at decent prices on the used market. When budget allows, then go for a better pre too.
sammyshaps's avatar
sammyshaps OP
43 posts
 
@goheelz thanks for the response, appreciate it. I should have mentioned in my first post that I am taking the cambridge out to put in my second system. I like the Rotel a good amount but think that it would be outclassed with the kind of upgrade I want so was going to bargain list it on craigslist. 

The more I've been researching the more I think integrated is the right call for me as I want to be able to forgot about upgrading for a few years. It seems that some of the newer integrated amps offer a lot of options and some really nice sound, and are easier on the wallet. But I am interested in hearing your thoughts now that you know the cambridge is out of the equation. Also open to hearing some McIntosh or other used amp/preamp combo recommendations. If I could get a used amp and pre that meets or exceeds any of my above mentioned integrated options, I'm listening :-) 
ericsch
753 posts
 
You may be able to find a Luxmam 505 on close out. It was recently replaced by a MK 2 version.
robelvick's avatar
robelvick
619 posts
 
OP,

I'm guessing you have an older version of the AppleTV that has optical output? If that's the case, the the Musical Fidelity probably wouldn't be a good fit, as it only has USB input for digital.

You also have a pretty nice phono preamp, so you won't need an integrated that has one included (HINT6, M6i).  The  Phonomena ii will sound better than most integrateds that have a built-in phono in your price range.

I think Hegel is a great choice, and even a used H190, H160 would have enough power for your speakers.

I own the Rost, and love it.  Great sounding DAC.  The Rost might be a bit underpowered for your speakers though.  Depends on how loud you like/want to listen.
sammyshaps's avatar
sammyshaps OP
43 posts
 
@robelvick Thanks for the response. And yes it's the older one with the optical out. I was considering upgrading/updating to a Blue Node or something like that at some point, so that's why I'm still considering the Musical Fidelity.

And I hear your point on the phono preamp. I was wondering what opinions on that would be. I've been reading that the phono preamp on the Musical Fidelity is quite nice, but perhaps not as nice as what I have, something more to consider.

And yes the Hegel would be my choice if I can talk the seller down closer to my budget and thanks for those other recommendations, I'll take a look.

I have a fairly tricky and large listening room so tend to play/listen loud.
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