2. amps-preamps
  3. 188714-184934

Looking for integrated solid state amp for daily usage

I love the sound of my tube amps, but I need an amp powered on all day every day (like 16 hours per day) for my nearfield desktop setup with JBL 4309 speakers (using directstream mk1 dac).

I have tried a Schiit Aegir and a Schiit Ragnarok, but didn’t like either compared to my cheap tube amp and expensive tube amp. They just seemed boring and dead to me.

So I’m looking for suggestions on a beautiful sounding solid state integrated amp that sounds big and engaging as much like a tube amp as possible, if one even exists. I don’t want a tube preamp with a solid state amp.

I listen to a lot of music types from classical to jazz to classic rock.

I’d like to keep the price under $3k if possible, used is great. I’ve heard Accuphase and Luxman are really good, but price seems to be more than $5k for those.

retroactiv
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,162 posts
 

My take

 

because it’s a desktop system with its inherent avsilable space limitations, I’d lean towards a half-size footprint integrated amp instead of the usual full size option.

these half-size made in UK brands are true contenders and no pretenders that may pleasantly surprise you in their audio performance.. 

Two immediately come to mind :

CYRUS (couple of options here ) and REGA BRIO-R. Google the reviews.

 

 

 

 

maxwave's avatar
maxwave
913 posts
 

https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/rotel-ra-1592mkii-integrated-amp/

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,502 posts
 

A PS Audio Elite + would be a perfect fit.

jasonbourne71's avatar
jasonbourne71
834 posts
 

NAD!

retroactiv OP
31 posts
 

I should add more info. It's my desktop setup but I have a full size audio rack next to the desk for audio components. Speakers are on the desk. My tube amps are el34 and el84, but I'm currently waiting on tubes for both since both have one bad tube. One of the reasons why I'm thinking to use solid state for the bulk of the time. 

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