Better Integrated Amp?

I checked for offers with monitor audio and there is the Monitor Audio Bronze 200 and 500 (6th gen) available

oliverben5672,

I mention Monitor Audio simply because I am very familiar with that Yamaha 501 amplifier and Monitor Audio Silver 200 (I think that is how they are called). Not current model, though. A friend of mine has it and he settled on it after Marantz and a few more that I forgot. That combination is not only good for money, it is, in fact, very pleasant to listen to. Never fatiguing, no matter what kind of music you throw at it. Of course, it has to have some, relatively minor, shortcoming and that was bass. Once he bought SONY subwoofer at the thrift store ($12, for real), there is nothing to improve anymore unless he decides to really invest much more money. He uses Pioneer PLX-1000 turntable with Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, or digital sources. Even DAC in Yamaha is decent. Sure, separate DAC is much better, but for a starter it is good. As others have said, use it with your phone, computer, whatever else, until you are able to upgrade. You may simply not be in a rush.

Monitor audio is nice but I would want silvers at least, not bronze.

Out of what you listed, I’d take the B&W’s and the amp choice would come down to which sound you prefer.  Marantz will be more laid back and the yamaha will be more lively.  The B&W’s will sound a bit lively too.  I had a pair of B&W 686 and really liked them.  They sounded great.

How much are these packages you are looking at?

Can't go wrong with Monitor Audio, using the Platinum 300ii myself and love their musicality, very warm and rich sound. I have heard all lines from bronze, silver,  and gold. If you can afford a little extra the silvers are quite nice. 

Monitor Audio sounds good then, I'm having a look into their silver models to see which one would be the best fit. I've narrowed down the other options as well a bit and will continue to do so til i get to a few favourites.