I guess integrated amps are cheaper, than an amp and a preamp (and separate phono stage) so I wonder what the best value is for x, for the sake of argument ~$1500, total. Seems that it will only buy the lowest end of the separates while somewhat of a mid-tier of integrated solid state amps.
Tough amp decision
Hi everyone. Much appreciate the forum’s help in the past and have a tough amp decision coming up. I will make a big investment in electronics soon. My system has Qutest DAC, ARC LS25 II tube preamp, Adcom GSA 555 II amp. Speakers are Celestion 750se or B&W 803 matrix series II ($35 Habitat for Humanity!).Also getting into and really enjoying vinyl, Old Kenwood turntable and Bellari 129 phono preamp. I have my old record collection of about 2K albums so in the long run this will matter. The question: To upgrade I will audition two Mac integrateds: MA 8950, MA 352. Should I instead buy an amp (eg MC312, MC462 or Parasound JC5)? MA 8950 hits a lot of birds, with phonostage and DAC it would free up a lot of components for a second system, but top priority should be one with great sound. Tunes have helped the sharp, “hot” nature of the B and W. If I wait to audition amps I lose a chance to get the 8950 for 6.5K. A lot of variables to ask you about, but that is the decision. Thanks a lot for you help!
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At ~$1500… I certainly would not go with mono blocks… a lot of extra chassis cost for inexpensive internal components. Maybe even for separates. My office system has a PrimaLuna integrated amp. I think at that price point… if you choose really carefully integrated is the only thing that will get you near HiFi. In the audiophile domain, mono blocks win. |
thanks @ghdprentice I guess that will be a while, I will tweak other parts until my mono block phase arrives. |
I feel like I need to take this conversation in a new direction. I have owned a number of power amps over the years, including tube amps from Audio Research a Lamb. I now have Pass XA60.8 power amps combined with an Audio Research Aniversery Edition preamp and I am completely happy. I had the Lamb and Pass amplifiers at the same time and decided to keep the Pass and sell the Lambs. I think Nelson has created wonderful amplification equipment. If you decide on an integrated amp, the Pass INT-60 is also beautiful. I own both. I think the quality of amplification is more important than the quantity. Both Pass amps are class A |
@russ751 Yes, the Pass INT-60 is a really outstanding sounding integrated. I was really impressed with its rhythm and pace… for an integrated the musicality and nuanced sound and power is very impressive. |
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