2. amps-preamps
  3. 184600-182675

Amp question with size constraints

I am in the process of looking to upgrade my amplifier (presently a Rega Brio R), but I am faced with size constraints: given the built-ins I have, I cannot really go much beyond 13 inches in depth. The trouble of course is that better amps tend to be larger in size. 

To add another wrinkle, I primarily listen to vinyl (via custom Linn Sondek TT w/ MC cartridge and Fyne floorstanders). I've seen positive reviews of smaller Cambridge and NAD integrated amps, but they tend to focus on the digital side of things. What I'm wondering is whether an integrated amp with my size constraints would work well with my setup for vinyl, or alternatively if there is a good power amp within that scale that I could just pair with a decent phono preamp. 

I am not married to any particular approach but am not really sure which way to go at this point. Help me, Obi-Wan, etc.

polanskyd
shkong78's avatar
shkong78
1,485 posts
 

Starkrimson monoblocks.

 

They are tiny at size but sound grand at reasonable price.

 

https://youtu.be/ziImnuT2bWE

 

Thomas

recklesskelly
330 posts
 

Gold Note PA10 class A GaN awesome 

verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 

An AGD Tempo power Amp and Alto preamp will solve your problem and sound MUCH better than your rega (and should since they are 10x the price).  They will easily fit on your shelf and will only require a .5M set of XLRs to connect.  The phono stage in the Alto is excellent.  The power amp (tempo) is a good match for Fyne and tonally sounds like a much more refined Rega.  If you want a DAC included, then the Andante becomes the first choice as it has all the functionality of the Tempo plus a superb R2R DAC and Player/Renderer on-board.  

Either is a rig worthy of your turntable and speakers.  

Full disclosure, I am an AGD dealer but you will note it has been mentioned above by several people and for good reason.  Also note that not all GaN (Gallium Nitrate) amps sound the same.  If your preference is Rega and you like a warmer, more romantic sound, AGD is THE choice.  

tweak1
3,671 posts
 

Audio Alchemy made some small (and shallow) kit that sounds quite good and can be found very inexpensively on the used market. His designs can also be found under the Elac name. I have owned the stereo amp and still have his DDP-1 (dac/pre) + PS 5 outboard PS; he also made a very small phono pre

You won't be disappointed with either the price or performnce

elliottbnewcombjr
5,485 posts
 

Mono Blocks would fit more readily, then do you have an existing preamp, existing phono stage, remote control?

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