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Integrated Amps - another thread...

Ok, I am going to start looking for an integrated amp that meets my needs.  Let me tell you a little about me and my system...

I was an early R&D person (not technical; rather, sound) at Cary Audio, in the very beginning.  I have been in the audio world for 35 years.  My current system consists of: MacBook Pro > Schiit Modi 3 > Rega Brio > to modified ADS &L780/2 Speakers.  All my PC, IC, and SC are hand made using the Helix Image model.  I also have a number of mechanical isolation things going on around the entire system.  Fairly good size room; however, I don't play really loud.

BTW, I'm one of the only people that has always believed in the sound of ADS speakers and still do...

My ultimate goal is to relplace the MacBook (the last change), Schiit Modi 3, and the Rega Brio.  The ADS aren't going anywhere.  They fit me!

I thought about separates; but, I think I want to stick with an Integrated Amp.  I don't really want an Integrated with a DAC (if it has one, then so be it).  I would to keep it around 3K, if possible.  No really wanting to get back into tubes nd I'm comfortable trying Class D.

I listen 100% to Tidal and Quboz, via Roon, on my MacBook, to mostly late 50's early 60's Jazz.  I do listen to newer Jazz when I hear a good album.

So, throw out some suggestions, please...


caryking
caryking OP
22 posts
 
Nothing wrong with the Brio, per se... this system was mostly a background system until recently. My children have moved out of the house and a bonus room opened up for me to have a 2-Channel system again.

Over my years, doing this audio thing, I’ve owned a bunch of stuff including Cary Audio, Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, Macintosh, etc...

Being that I’m going to go the integrated route (and really don’t want to deal with tubes), leaning on my old friend to make me something unique is not an option. I really don’t want tubes again. put 2+2 together and you will know my friend.

I’m going to replace the DAC as well. Patrick, I agree, I’m going to replace the MacBook; however, I want that to be my last piece in the chain. Maybe I’m doing it backwards; however, I have a plan, so, the streamer is last in line...

Budget - around 3K for the integrated...
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verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 
If you are happy with Rega's tonal profile, I would look at the following.  

Rega Elicit R - you get more power and a better transformer as you step up.  Rega integrateds do improve as you rise in the line.  I believe this lists for $3K.

The Naim Nait XS 3 is going to be $3490 and is a VERY nice integrated amp.  Naim tends not to have high power output into 8 ohms but will be shockingly good with tougher loads / lower impedances.  

The Rogue Pharaoh is a hybrid.  It has a tube input stage and a Class D Hypex output stage.  It uses two, relatively inexpensive, tubes in the input stage that soften the edge you sometimes get with some Class D amps.  I own the Rogue Hydra which is a power amp that has been around for a while.  I love it but you would need to roll in different tubes.  

These are three options that tonally will keep you in a similar place but improve the quality of your amplification. There are many others that I have no doubt will also work.  

I am a dealer for Naim.  I have no affiliation with Rega or Rogue other than I am still an owner of a Hydra and former owner of a Brio R.   

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
i would recommend you get a small or medium hegel or a middle or upper naim - excellent sound and build

hegel a little more purity in overall sound, naim a little more prat perhaps a touch less refined

another option if you don't mind a slightly older unit is a primare i-30, which is really outstanding, a touch more treble sparkle than hegel or naim, outstanding coherence and drive

all excellent

no affiliation, other than being a happy owner of all 3...
jl35
4,016 posts
 
Belles Aria, both standard and signature...Michael Kelly of Aerial who designed for ADS, also used to like Classe and Theta with Aerial, but that was years ago if you’re interested in older amps...
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