2. amps-preamps
  3. 172680-34747

A decent integrated amp under 2K ...

I'm looking for an INTEGRATED AMP. My speakers are Altec 620A (100 db efficiency) and my listening room is 14 x 21. I mainly listen to digital files from my DAC (Metrum) but sometimes I feel less lazy and put on a vinyl on my Garrard. I don't need a phono stage, I use the one from another integrated amplifier (Spendor D40). Here's my shortlist:

1) Belles Aria Integrated (slightly powerful for my needs)

2) Croft phono integrated (since I don't need a phono stage, I think it's a shame to burn tubes for nothing)

3) Rogue Sphinx V3 (too powerful for my needs)

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS: I can live with tubes but only in the PREAMP section and I try to avoid Class A due to the heat. I'm open to Class D (proof: the Rogue) but the choice is limited and these devices come with a bunch of stuff I don't need. I rather spend my $ where it will make a difference.

regards

128x128alaindexe
jasonsim
113 posts
 

I can recommend the Cambridge Audio CXA80 or CXA81.

It has wonderful amounts of power and is super quiet. Plus I found a used one for $500. 
 

The built in DAC is not all that great, so I use a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC. 
 

rocket94
21 posts
 

You cannot go wrong with the Krell S-300i. The Krell Bass is there with good dynamics.

metaldetektor
160 posts
 

Consider the Hegel H95. Believe it's just under $2k.

gwangler15
6 posts
 

I have tried several of the Pass amps, and to my ears the Croft Integrated is just as good. The tubes are inexpensive and he voiced the amps to the JJ tubes. I rolled in some NOS tubes and eventually came back to the JJ. My amp is on all day long and has never had an issue or needed tube replacement. I run it through Reference 3a DeCapo’s which are 89db sensitivity and it hasmore than enough power to drive them. I also have a Decware SE34.5 “Rachael” with a CJ PV11 preamp, and it sounds very similar- which is excellent. If you have any questions, you can email him directly and he will respond quickly.  

gwangler15
6 posts
 

In regards to the Croft, I had the Leben 300, the Rogue Sphynx v2, Electocompaniet ECI-3, Creek Destiny, and a Shindo Montrille (should not have sold that one). Except for the Shindo, the Croft was and is my favorite. It does not get very hot- just warm, and the sound gives just enough of that tube midrange that I prefer, without sounding syrupy.

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