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
polanskyd OP
8 posts
 

The AGDs sound very appealing but I'll confess I was hoping to keep it under 10k, as I would need the phono preamp as well.

The Benchmark sounds great and would fit specwise. They don't seem to make a preamp with a phono stage though. Is there a particular one that would be recommended to pair with the Benchmark?

I am located in Toronto.

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ivanj
35 posts
 

@polanskyd

If you have to have an integrated consider the Accuphase range. They have plug in boards for a DAC and a MC/MM phono stage. This would be a considerable upgrade from what you have, and the Canadian prices are on par with reality. I’d reckon there would be a dealer in Toronto.

polanskyd OP
8 posts
 

@ivanj and @wester17 Many thanks -- that's very helpful

johnto
1,023 posts
 

The Parasound Hint has everyone one box and sounds great too.

soix
9,456 posts
 

The AGDs sound very appealing but I'll confess I was hoping to keep it under 10k

The AGD Tempo di GaN I mentioned above is $5,500.

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