Integrated Amp Choices
Rogue Audio Pharaoh might be worth a look. Class D (Hypex) and Tube hybrid from a company with a good reputation and reasonable pricing. But lacks onboard DAC I do believe. But could add external with money saved then pick up the flex to upgrade it down the line. Chord Qutest and Musical Fidelity M6sR with warranty over on TMR for $1.5k http://rogueaudio.com/Products_Pharaoh.htm |
jbuhl - great info, thanks. This seems to be an ever evolving post with more & more recommendation coming by the minute. So, I thought I'd through another line in the mix, one that seems to get little discussion here. How about a Benchmark stack? Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. Seem to have reasonable prices on both hardware and cables. |
Listenup has a store demo of a Hegel 190 https://listenup.com/hegel-h190-integrated-amplifier-black-clearance-open-box.html Do a $1.5K DAC and you are right on Budget. But the 190 proly has on board DAC. |
@high-amp I forgot to add this in my statements about the BM stack. If the pure BM stack is too revealing (what I use) and some warmth is wanted. Try the CODA 07x preamp. The 07x preamp and the AHB2 are incredible together (I also have this pairing). I prefer the HPA4 + AHB2 combo but I think most would like the 07x + AHB2 more. I sold an extra AHB2 I had to someone last month. I think I lost $50 on that sale. The buyer hated it put it up for sale in 3 days. The BM is not for everyone, especially if you want some color. Here is Benchmarks description of their gear vs others. How Should I Buy an Audio System? - Benchmark Media Systems |
