Amp Search and Upgrade


So currently I have a Parasound Integrated, the Hint 6, that are driving my Dali Opticon 8. They are rated as a 4 ohm speaker with an 88 db sensitivity. I am looking to upgrade one item this year so I want to make it count. The integrated has pre-outs so I can adda 2 channel amp or a pair of mono blocks.

At this point would I be better off getting just an amp and using the Hint 6 as pre temporarily until I can afford a better pre amp or should I get both pre and amp at once? I'm thinking something used {hopefully) in the $4k range.

I only stream using a Bluesound Node 2i feeding a very nice DAC, an Aqua LaVoce S2, I also have a pair of REL T/7i subs.

Recommendations on what would pair with the Dali's and whether I should stick with the Parasound as pre please!

dadork

There is a nice JC5 from Parasound right now used on Audiomart, I suppose that would be the best match if I am using the HJint as pre?

That preamp is gonna make whatever amp you get sound muted.  I have a P6 and it is a swiss army knife.  It will do everything but processes the signal too much in the process.  

Best buy in amps right now is the Kinki Studios EX-M1+.   It is an integrated so you don't need a a preamp.  It should make you happy until your budget is $10K plus per component.

Jerry

I'd consider upgrading the Node 2i. I think that is your weak spot. I fall short in recommendation except maybe an Aurender. Many have pointed out a big improvement when upgrading from the Node. And I have discovered that the source equipment  often give best bang per buck

He isn't using the DAC in the node.  The node is a fine streamer.

 

@carlsbad I don't know that I could get over the looks on the Kinki tbh. But you're saying either stick with a better integrated or get a pre and and amp I believe.