-UPDATE-
I’ve been able to demo some of the integrated amps listed in my post. Thus far, I’ve demoed my friend’s Primare I21 and a Hegel H160. I just picked up a Cambridge 851A through Cambridge USA as a refurbished model (which comes with a 30-day return policy). I’d love to demo others out there as they may become available. Here are my experiences thus far.
The Primare I21 was full, punchy and loud. It sounded hot (i.e. lots of preamp gain) and was bright and glary as you turned up the volume. However, it sounded good at low volume. It sounded louder than its 75wpc at 8 ohm rating. Perhaps this particular unit has an issue. Definitely sounded different than what was described in the WhatHiFi review.
The Hegel H160 was smooth and refined. Very lively and dynamic. The sound seemed to come alive at 40+ on the volume dial. This isn’t good as it was above my normal listening level. The sound below 40 (and a low listening levels) was flat/sterile. A review of the H160 by: A British Audiophile on Youtube confirmed this similar issue. However, this reviewer also confirmed the problem was addressed and corrected in the H190. The H160 was returned to the seller (preowned audio store) as the unit had a volume knob issue. Everything worked as normal via remote.
I just started listening to the Cambridge 851A. However, my early impressions are very good. It is smooth and refined sounding like the H160. However, it sounds good at both low and at my normal listening range. I haven’t “cranked-it” yet. The volume control seems linear and utilizes the preamp section very well. When setting the volume level display at “00 to 96” (vs. -95 to 0db) my normal listening range is around 50-55, which is at/just above halfway on the volume dial. This was similar to the ML 383. I’ve read lots of positive reviews of the 851A and 851C (which I also own) and especially when used together. So far, I tend to agree with them. However, I have a lot of listening to do yet and things can change. Will post another update when completed.
Thanks to everyone for all the recommendations. Looking at the numbers (for grins & giggles) the Hegel (H190/H160) is the most recommended thus far at 10 posts. The Belles Aria comes in second at 7 posts. There are 6 listed here, and the 7th comes from John Rutan. The Cambridge and Primare fall in at 2 posts each. There are 2 posts for the Ayre Ax7e, Musical Fidelity M5si; as well as models from Cayin and Rogue Audio. I briefly owned an Ax7e a few years ago and it sounded very good. However, it seemed to run out of steam as you turned it up. I was using Vandersteen Model 2CE Signature speakers with it, so I’m not sure if it was the Vandys, and/or if things would be any different if used with my current Revel F30’s. Also, the Ax7e has a passive preamp stage (which I like a lot) but doesn’t provide any gain—which may have been the issue in my case. After listening to the Hegel and Cambridge, I’m really interested in demoing the Aria and H190. Perhaps someday…
