British Integrated Amps

I started with a Naim Nait 1, which was excellent for its day but over-romanticized these days (as is the Nait 2).  Fantastic with a LP12/arm/MM cartridge and a pair of Kans or Index2.  

A couple of different Exposures were excellent, as was the Onix OA21.  

One integrated that doesn't get mentioned much is the Linn Majik, which is terrific within its limits.  I think too many people tried to run too-difficult speakers with them, but within its limits it is great.  Ditto the replacement for it - the Linn Majik-I (I think).  Bigger case, more power, etc.  

I have a Meridian 551, which sounds fine but is still breaking in.  I wouldn't put it up against the ones mentioned above - while it is smooth and ballsy, it's a bit . . . polite.  

I have really enjoyed Croft and Exposure gear the most.  I liked Rega and Naim, but not quite as much.

OP, I too am a fan of the British sound, having in house Wharfdale, Mission and Celestion speakers.  Current main system uses Jade 3's.  Having been a Harmon Kardon amp user for years I recently bought a Cambridge CXA81.  A very good value for the money.  I'm very pleased with it.

Someday I will probably move to Harbeth speakers, but amps?  I had no idea there were so many from the UK.

Great thread! Thank you all for your comments & posts!

I’m moving overseas in a few months so the idea of a shoe box sized dual voltage Brit int w/phono stage is very appealing right now.

I now have an Acurus DIA100 w/Monitor Audio R700MD & Schiit Mani and it’s a really nice match. I’ll most likely be moving into smaller quarters so 50-60 wpc will probably be just fine. A dealer has messaged me about the new Cyrus One but I’m not sure I want Class D. I’ve had several Class D units, and while very good, I prefer class A/AB, and preferably the warmth of MOSFET outputs.

Naim fan - I’ve owned the Onix OA21s & OA20/2 and both were truly excellent but the source selector knob on both units loosened up over time & I never could find the right Allen wrench to fix this seemingly minor issue. Did you ever encounter that issue with your OA21? The OA60 was a different animal, beefier as a 60 watt dual mono unit, but not as musical and sweet sounding.

Good to hear your comments about the Linn Majik & Majik I. How is the build quality & reliability of them? I also have a Meridian 504 tuner so was considering the 551 integrated. The TNT-audio review wasn’t so flattering saying that it was overpriced. I’d like to hear more of your thoughts on the 551.

Ryder - agree that stepping up above the beer budget does yield much better results, although, I’m still on the fence in that regard. I’ll probably end up spending more than I anticipated if I choose to get rid of the DIA100.

There is a Rega Elicit clamshell model on eBay now for $600 that I’m keeping an eye on. Another very enjoyable unit I owned for a very short time was the Creek 4330. With its passive line stage, it was like the lower powered version of my current Acurus. I’ll bet the 5350SE are heads and shoulders better though.

Watching the following on eBay: Linn Majik, Majik IP, Rega Elicit clamshell, Aura VA80 mirror finish, Meridian 551 w/ universal remote & one with MSR remote, 2019 Rega Brio 230V.

Should the MF XA-1 or XA-2 or Cyrus 6V2 be considered? I’m a tube guy at heart. Thanks again, keep the comments coming!

I have a Naim Supernait 2, it sounds incredible. Been very happy with it. I am thinking about trying the power supply upgrade.