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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
yage
400 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?


joey54
434 posts
 
What's your budget?
charles7
104 posts
 
I listen to the same jazz you do (and chamber music). I recently got the Quicksilver Integrated Amplifier. It's great! Yes, it is a tube amplifier – designed to drive each of its eight power tubes gently. Owner/designer Mike Sanders believes in simple designs. List is $2000.

My speakers are rated at 89.5 dB sensitivity, and the Quicksilver's 20 watts are more than enough for moderate-volume listening. The volume control stays around 10:30 o'clock, never beyond 12.

For a DAC, the economical JDS Labs+ does a fine job.

jaudio1
121 posts
 
For 3k a budget I would look at the following.  My Top 5

1) Parasound Halo Integrated $2999
2) Musical Fidelity m6i - $2799
3) Vincent Audio SV-237 - $2599
4) Rogue Audio Chrono's Magnum III - $2999
5) Rogue Audio Sphynx V3 - $1595
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