Buy Back Old or Move On?

gosta - I’m sure many here may disagree with you, but I don’t think I’m going the tube route, thanks

As alternative, this seems to be getting rave reviews and it would be cheaper than the Coda and brand new to boot. Although, I’m not sure if I’d get 20 years out of it?

https://www.kinki-studio.com/ex-m1 - $2,614 shipped to my door.

I’e also been hearing from others here that Hegels are great as well. An H390 is an integrated amp that has a DAC & streamer inclusive. I have seen open boxes for around $4,500.

Keep it simple. Purchase the Coda. If it’s aged badly, dump it for a small loss and move forward. Or purchase a tube pre with the Coda to run the preamp side of the Coda integrated to see if it’s all it’s billed to be. 

Why not have a look at the new NAD all-in-one amps (incl Dirac) like the M33.

There are other manufucturers too.

The future!

wturkey - I have reached out to both the owner of the Coda and have a wanted ad on USAM, but no responses yet. Still open to plan B.

gosta - I was always a separates guy, so it was really tough to go with an integrated amp. I just don't think I can do an all-in-one just yet...maybe in 20 years?

If I were in your shoes I would go back to the Coda for the following reasons:

1) Since this is your retirement system, it's probably time to get off of the "upgrade merry-go-round."

2) "Peace of mind;" you know and like how the Coda sounds.

3) The Coda is a great amp.

4) Coda amps rarely come up on the resale market (see # 3); plus, it sounds like you were the original owner of the CSiB. If that is the case, then that provides you with another layer of peace of mind.

Good luck in your search and enjoy your retirement!

Mitch