Integrated suggestions


Hi all,  for personal reasons I need to sell my $17k tube integrated & would have to replace it with something much cheaper - around $4k, maybe $5k...

I only mention the price of my current amp so you're familiar with the level of performance to which I am accustomed. 

It would need to have at least one balanced input, line only is fine, at least 30W PC, any class is OK as long as it offers exceptional performance for its price point! Tube or SS. Capability to run 4ohm speakers.

Any suggestions...?

I know there are many but you guys may suggest something I may not consider.

Thanks. 

128x128infection

@njkrebs  Good call, I'd forgotten about Lab12. This is probably the direct competition to the X200. I'd certainly like to hear both...

The Belles virtuoso may be out of your price range, but it’s got a balanced input, and it’s 400 w per into 4 ohms. Over 16a per ch peak amps. This amp sounds amazing 

+1 on Lab12 and Audio Hungary Qualiton, have heard both manufacturers' top integrateds (and some of their separates), excellent price/value ratio. I own a Qualiton C200 preamp which I just recently purchased for a second system, big bold soulful sound is how I'd generally characterize these manufacturers' sonic signatures. Agree however that it isn't clear what exactly the warranty repair service is like IN REALITY in North America.

I really feel like ModWright is often overlooked. Their current model pre is out of your price range, even used, but there's one of their older for sale on the other site. I've been. Extremely happy with my LS100 preamp from them. Truly boutique product, excellent build quality, and more than any of that, sounds amazing.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649960251-modwright-kwi-200-with-warranty-until-may-15th-2023/