2. amps-preamps
  3. 176711-145530

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
dadork OP
633 posts
 

I've never had any experience with tube equipment @mesch. Unlike many people on this forum I have pets, 4 cats and a year old lab. I worry about hair and dander with tubes. Even cleaning continuously it still happens. They don't mess with my equipment though. I don't know if I want to get into the whole chasing the right tube. Enough rabbits to chase without adding another. 

@drewdawg999 I started doing some reading about your recommendation. It certainly is an interesting option at that price point considering the reviews. There's supposed to be a dealer in Grand Rapids which would be my closest at 4 hours away. Their website doesn't show any Peachtree Audio so emailed to find if still a dealer. I'd definitely give it a listen with my system if I can. 

drewdawg999's avatar
drewdawg999
53 posts
 

@dadork Cool, that's doable, totally worth the trip for this size investment. My local hifi dealer is 20 minutes away, in Pasadena, and they have it. Wish I were in the market at that price point, save a grand if you go for the package deal. I have a Hypex amp and it is truly outstanding, so if this Peachtree is a technological upgrade, then that should be incredible. Best of luck on the upgrade! 

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jji666
537 posts
 

WAIT!  Ok maybe a bit dramatic. 

But consider this:  the preamp section in your integrated is made to mate with the power section. The pre-outs are for convenience. Makers of integrated amps don't spend to make the preamp section mate with separates.  If the preamp section mates well, it's just a coincidence.

If you want to upgrade the amps, do both.  Think used?

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