Looking for recommendations for integrated with a more “organic” sound.


Hello all,

I hope that you are all doing well, and that I might tap into your collective knowledge base and experience to find a new amplifier. 

Current system includes Bluesound Node2>Denafrips Enyo>Dayens Ampino>Zu DW6 Superflys. I stream probabaly 95% but maybe 5% is vinyl or CD. I sometimes use it to watch movies in 2.0, but that’s not my main concern. 
 

I’m really enjoying the sound of this setup. Very organic with nice harmonic richness. Surprisingly good bass extension and smooth and pleasant highs. Imaging is good. 
 

What I would like to do is preserve that natural and organic sound, while also adding more inputs (Ampino only has 2) improving bass definition/control and impact, and perhaps elevating detail retrieval. I would trade a bit of smoothness for a bit more HF extension. A basic remote is also on the checklist. 
 

My budget is maybe $2500, but I’m not in a desperate position, I could potentially stretch it a little if I wait. 
 

New units are preferred, but I would consider used if it achieves my goals. 
I’m open to SS or tubes, but cost of the tubes is a concern. I’m susceptible to tuberoll-itis. Speakers are pretty sensitive, so mega-watts are not required. 

The system is in a medium sized living room which has 9” ceilings and is open to a kitchen and dining room, so there’s lots of volume. Most listening is at moderate volumes, but I’ve been known to crank it on occasion. Musical tastes are extremely varied. 
 
basically, I’m looking to maintain the organic tone and natural presentation while improving performance, adding input options (3 minimum) and adding remote. 

I don’t want a DAC, but a better-than-basic phono stage would be a bonus. I’m more interested in performance than features.

Is there anything out there that might fit the bill? 


Thank you in advance for your input. 
Tom

 

earworm22

@jetter Thank you my friend. My system is always a work in progress and it works for me. Other than the music itself, I really enjoy the process of hunting down, researching and getting to audition gear.

The two prints I have hanging are from my dad’s old office. He was a steam locomotive fan. My brother and I have many fond memories visiting museums and attending train shows with our pop. I believe one is a Berkshire class, the other I can’t remember off hand. I’m not sure if they were considered to be in the big-boy class. You gave me an excuse to do some research!

I hesitated to mention this because of its cost. But it fits so well with the sound quality you are looking for and is a very high quality component. Maybe you could take your time and look for a used unit: Audio Research I-50 ($6K new). Even if you decide you could not afford one, I highly recommend finding an audio store where you can listen to one. It would at least make an outstanding reference for you to judge other units.

@ghdprentice 

How does one bias the tubes in the I50? Is it user performed or take it back to the dealer?