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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
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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
4,058 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...
timlub
2,041 posts
 
I second jl35
yage
401 posts
 
An Ayre AX-7e would do quite nicely. Solid state but reminiscent of tubes. It’s only available used.


For something different, you could consider swapping the Modi / Brio combo with the RME ADI-2 Fs DAC ($1299) and a well engineered amp based on the Purifi module - something like the March Audio P452 ($1595, ships from Australia). Otherwise if you could stretch the budget, then sub the Benchmark AHB2 ($2999) for the P452.
caryking OP
22 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback...  I read a review on Rega Elicit R and, although, the sound was very good, they mentioned it being lean sounding.  Compare that to the Brio that I have.  Are they really similar voicing with Elicit R having more detail, focus, soundstage dimension and depth?


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