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SS Budget "Tone" Integrated Amplifiers

In your experience, what are some good, inexpensive solid state integrated amps that give good tone / density? Is there such a thing? I'm done with tubes (for now) and spending $$$ chasing unicorns instead of listening to music. But I like instruments to sound like they should and not have poor recordings (which IMO are most) ruthlessly revealed. I can think of Sugden but it's all but Covid unobtainium right now. What else?
greg7
blue-magoo's avatar
blue-magoo
143 posts
 
I have a Rogue Sphinx v1 upgraded with Mullard cv4003 (12au7) tubes. It sounds awesome. Tons of power. It's a hybrid Integrated amp with two tubes for preamp and solid state for the amp. You may be able to get a used one for around $900 to $1000.
audionoobie's avatar
audionoobie
360 posts
 
I have also heard good music come from the Rogue Sphinx. I believe I heard them with the Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary speakers. Nice pairing. 
smrex13
645 posts
 
Would highly recommend a look at the Denon PMA-1600-NE.  It's surprisingly pure sounding, especially in "analog mode."  The phono stage is exceptional, if you play vinyl and don't have an external phono stage that you like.  I can't speak for the quality of the internal DAC.
alaindexe's avatar
alaindexe
75 posts
 

I’ve been using a Sugden A25B (34 watts in class A/B) for quite some years now and it does quite the task you are refering to... for the price I paid (200$ used), I doubt there’s anything that can even come close... it sounds warm but it's not the last word in transparency and details... 

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

i found the belles aria very nice sounding overall but it could be a little bright/overly energetic in the treble... so if the op wants to be spared poor recordings being ruthlessly revealed, he might approach this recommendation with a little caution... my 2 c

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