2. amps-preamps
  3. 158059-1749

What integrated should I upgrade to?

Hi folks,

Firstly, my apologies for yet another "what should I" post.  But I'd like to seek the advice of my Audiogon brethren.  

Currently, in my second system used mostly for TV viewing, I have a pair of Wharfedale Reva 3 floorstanding loudspeakers, a Cambridge Audio CXA80 integrated amp / DAC and an Auralic Aries Mini streamer.  Wired with transparent Music Link / Wave cables and Shunyata Hydra Talos conditioner and Voodoo Fire power cable to the CXA80.  

I've been itching to upgrade the integrated amp, as I figure it is what's holding things back from a resolution standpoint.  I moved a better DAC (PS Audio Direct Stream Junior) to the second system and it didn't make a discernible difference given the existing gear.  I then moved the Reva 3's up to my reference system and plugged them in and they sounded wonderful!  I've got a Luxman 590axII integrated in that system with the PS Audio Direct Stream Junior DAC.  The power foundation is nearly the same; using Shunyata Denali there.  

So it leads me to conclude that the CXA80 needs upgrading.  

I have been considering a nice used Luxman 550ax or trying the new PS Audio Strata integrated.  I kinda know what to expect with the Luxman.  The PS Audio would be a greater unknown, but has the nicety of everything in one box: DAC, Preamp, amp and streamer.  The money outlay will be more for the Luxman, but not a huge difference.  It will be used rather than new.  Though, I would need a cheapy DAC just to accept the optical from the TV.  

Thoughts on this?  
jasonsim
geoffrey098
5 posts
 
What about Music Fidelity?   They are always getting great reviews. They are not over  priced either.

Krell makes great stuff

Bryston too.

Best Integrated amp for the money would be Music Fidelity.  You could all their stuff new.

Luxman integrated amps are super but are twice the cost
jasonsim OP
113 posts
 
Thanks Geoffrey. But I’ve already acquired the Luxman 505uxII. I hadn’t considered Music Fidelity, but thanks for the suggestion. I which I would have had a dealer near me to audition one and the many others that have been recommended. I know the sound of Luxman well, having lived with a 590axII for over a year now. I have grown found of it: sound, fit and finish. So decided, to go with another Luxman for my family room system. 
At the moment I’m in need of a good inexpensive DAC. 😁
relaks
63 posts
 
Lavardin IT, if you find it used, but owners rarely sell them.  I won't ))
jasonsim OP
113 posts
 
Folks. Decided to try a Cambridge CXN v2 series 2 to replace my Auralic Aries Mini. It will serve as both streamer and DAC for my TV.
I think the DAC section should be an upgrade from the built in DAC of the little Aries mini.
nitewulf
422 posts
 
I was gonna suggest the 505. Good to see you got that. I’m not a fan of CA dacs, I’d have suggested a Topping or a Schiit. But hopefully it’ll work out.
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