2. amps-preamps
  3. 177579-11307

Need some suggestions for a desktop amp.

I'm in need of some ideas/suggestions for a desktop amp. built in DAC would be a plus but not necessary. I used to have a Naim Untitqute driving my Harbeth P3ESR's which are very nearfield. My issue with the Naim is the large form factor which takes up a lot of space on my desk. Although the sound and functionality was great with the built in DAC and all.

The issue is, most amps with a smaller form factor made for desks are Headphone amps and not speaker amps. 

I tried a little Chinese amp but the ChiFi amp I ordered wouldn't work hooked up via USB to my iMac like it was adverstied to. So back it went.

I considered buying some Active Speakers but have never had any experience with them so not sure what direction to go. I love my little Harbeths so would like to keep them but I'm open to making a change if need be.

I'm close to pulling the trigger on a Nuprime IDA-8. However, I wanted to get others opinions first.

Thank you for your thoughts.

 

128x128jb505
ghdprentice
7,027 posts
 

I am a little confused.. desktop? You just want a small form factor? What about under the desk? My office system is off to the side and has a great integrated tube amp powering it.

Also, the DAC is a critical component. You do not want to have it “thrown in” as a part of the deal… you want a very specific, high quality component.

I developed my desktop system over about twenty years. I wanted a deeply immursive system. It required a great DAC, integrated amp and Speakers… as well as some good power conditioning.

My current system includes Totem Mite speakers (and small subwoofer), a PrimaLuna integrated amp and Schiit Gungnir DAC. An excellent sounding system… really punchy, natural, and pleasing to listen to. I put the components off to the side and under my desk.

 

I also have a great Woo tube headphone amp when I want to listen to headphones.

jb505's avatar
jb505 OP
60 posts
 

Thank you for your response.

I do have a dac ready for use if needed. Not an expensive one but I think it sounds pretty good. I have a REL sub off to the side of the desk and not much room underneath otherwise.

How do you change the volume or mute the system if you need to? Do you use the keys on the computer keyboard or have the Pimaluna volume knob within reach?

 

yyzsantabarbara
4,874 posts
 

The Benchmark AHB2 and the DAC3B HGC stacked on top (not an sonic issue) will give you a small form factor and also sound great with those warm Harbeths. 

I have a similar setup with KEF LS50s. I will be upgrading those speakers one day to something simitar to the Harbeths. One reason to do this is because I want to keep the Benchmark gear (with 2 AHB2's).

 

mike_in_nc
1,153 posts
 

You didn’t mention budget. I’m sure the Benchmark stack would be better than the IDA-8. I had the latter, and while it offers a lot good for the price, you would notice the difference on your Harbeths. I have a pair of P3ESR, and to me, the IDA-8 used with them sounded fine, but not as good as more expensive gear. (I'm using a Classe preamp and Marsh amplifier.) The IDA-8 digitizes everything, so you will get its signature even if you use your own DAC.

I wish I could suggest a compact integrated up to the standard of your Harbeths, but I am not familiar with that market. If you buy the IDA-8 new, I’d make sure you can return it if you don’t like it.

Active or powered speakers would help solve the space dilemma, but IMO Harbeths are hard to replace for natural and non-fatiguing sound. So be careful . . . there are worse things than a crowded desk. If you like the Naim otherwise, make space for it if you can!

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