2. amps-preamps
  3. 157696-1590

All-in-one integrated, 10-15K range, class A/B only

For a second system. I want to buy a SS all-in-one integrated. At least 200W in 8ohm.

When I say all-in-one means it has to have DAC built-in (preferable a very nice DAC commensurate to the price point of the system). I would highly prefer a streamer built-in as well.

Am super excited about the new Boulder 866. It seems to be the only one satisfying all the criterion.

Another option could be the Accuphase E-800 with DAC module (but no streaming).
DAG Progression but it crosses 18K without DAC.

Any other options?
I am not interested in anything Class-D. It has to be Class A/B amplifier.

Speakers are TBD as well.


essrand
sidekick_i's avatar
sidekick_i
59 posts
 
"I for one am a fan of the 866 design, especially the tilted front portion that makes the touchscreen actually usable not just a gimmicky nice to have.
in some ways it’s design is why it’s also number one in my list.
but of course everyone has their predilections."

The touch screen on the Boulder 866 is the best I've seen and experienced from any brand and large enough to be of actual use.

/ Marcus, www.perfect-sense.se


sidekick_i's avatar
sidekick_i
59 posts
 
As a general input, there are usually a significant jump in performance and build quality when taking the step from $5-10.000 to $10-15.000 (or more). You DO usually get what you’re paying for, at least on this level before moving into the luxury segment where many other factors comes into play.

Hegel as one example is strong within the mid-segment but does not compare with a higher end amp within the higher price ranges imo.

/ Marcus, www.perfect-sense.se
hedwigstheme
140 posts
 
Maybe the Soulution 300 series integrated? Be careful of 8 ohm ratings—if you don’t have your speaker picked out, you may want an integrated with an amplifier section that doubles into 4 ohms. One of the highly regarded units mentioned above sounds great into 8 ohms but supposedly falls apart into speakers that dip much below 4 ohms.
essrand OP
297 posts
 
@sidekick_i 
What, in your opinion, would be the best speaker pairing with the 866?

@hedwigstheme, thanks, will keep that in mind. BTW which unit are you referring to with regards to the 4ohm dip?
ghasley
2,502 posts
 
A firmware update just came out from Boulder and loaded without a hitch. It is now a Roon endpoint, seamlessly integrated. Volume and power on-off from within the Roon app. Just the way a high end product and support should work.
More to discover