2. amps-preamps
  3. 179835-121443

Temporary Down Sizing - Integrated Amp Recommendations

Moving into a small condo, as I need to take care of my parents for a few years, so my reference system is being put in storage.

My current reference system is:

  • T+A PA3100HV integrated Amp
  • T+A CRITERION TCD 110 S Floor-standing speakers
  • Cary Audio DMS 700 Digital Source & DAC
  • Clear Audio Ovation Turntable

The new system will perform double duty for both music and two channel cinema - (no more surround sound equipment either - ugh).

Because of the limited space open floor plan of the condo (having to keep the speakers close to the front wall) and needing to create a omni-directional sound stage - appealing to a wider listening group, I have decided to go with Ohm Tall 1000 speakers. I will also keep my Cary Audio DMS 700 as my digital music/NAS/ Streaming source & and use it’s DAC for ingesting the digital audio from the video feeds into the system.

For the amp - based on the decor (read wife) I’ve decided to go with a bit of vintage look, UV meters, on the integrated amp - which will be displayed as a center piece on the entertain console under the TV.

With a budget up to ~$3k I have been thinking about:

  • Yamaha A-S2200
  • Luxman L-505uXII
  • Vincent Audio SV-228 hybrid

Since I don’t need any digital capability the Yamaha and Luxman are very appealing, but I am a bit concerned with the reviews of those units and the references to those companies house sound signatures, as my T+A leans on the warm, analog side of neutral - not typically the way the Japanese brands are described as. The Vincent with a tube front end might be closer to what I am use to, but it doesn’t have balanced inputs and has a built-in DAC which I don’t need.

Long story short I would appreciate any constructive input, advise, recommendations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

josephp732
ryder
1,689 posts
 

Luxman is generally considered to be better than Yamaha in both sound and build quality. The Yamaha sounds flatter with reduced detail and dynamics while the Luxman has a bolder and more engaging sound. It’s a more 3-dimensional sound with the Luxman, more 2d with the Yamaha. The Accuphase sound is fuller or warmer in comparison to Luxman.

crustycoot
644 posts
 

The Lux will do very nicely to fulfill the priorities you set out.  With it, you are not buying redundancies, and it has a classic design.  If you can find one for your stated budget you will not be disappointed with its performance.  The Ohm Walsh 1000s are a nice choice for your speakers.  Enjoy...and it's good of you to care for your elders, who evidently raised you right.

big_greg
6,628 posts
 

I have no experience with Luxman or Yamaha, but previously had a Vincent SV-237 integrated.  Not the same model you're looking at, but it had a pretty neutral sound signature.  If it leaned in any direction, it would be towards warmth.  I replaced it with a Simaudio 600i. 

The Simaudio does not have meters, and a pre-owned one would probably be a little over your budget, but it's an excellent piece and looks great.  It is very neutral and just a little cleaner, more detailed, and dynamic than the Vincent.  I believe both are Class A for the first 10 watts.  I'm using the 600i with Harbeth P3ESR speakers which are less sensitive than the ones you're planning to purchase. 

I have 4 systems.  The 600i is in a secondary system, but If I had to downsize, that would be the keeper.

paradisecom
309 posts
 

Of the 3 listed, I'd look into the Luxman.  

There sure are a lot of suggestions not fitting what the OP wanted, though!

sbrownnw
693 posts
 

I have a very nice sounding black SimAudio Moon I-3 integrated in excellent cosmetic condition with factory remote that I am not using.  Great warm yet detailed sounding class A/AB amp.  It has a classic retro look but no UV meters.  PM me if you are interested.

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