2. amps-preamps
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Primare/ Vincent Adio /NAD /Rogue/ AVA /Hegel...- need a simple and reliable integrated

I came up with this list based on price and functions but all I know is that they are (mostly) boutique brands, cherished by audiophiles. I have heard NAD and Vincent and none of the rest. 

  • Vincent SV-500
  • Primare I2*
  • Rogue Sphinx v2
  • Audio by Van Alstine Vision SLR 
  • Hegel H160/ H120
  • NAD C368
  • Simaudio Moon I-5

I don't stream, I have a turntable and CD player. I am good with 50Watts per channel, and I would like to avoid tubes for no-fuss maintenance. I have Klipsch RP8000F speakers. I prefer sound on the warm side, I mostly listen to 60s and 70s rock and some soul/jazz/blues. I have decent hearing, I enjoy a nice soundstage but I nothing as critical and analytical as some of you/the typical audiophile. 

I am a bit shallow, looks are important :) My budget would allow me to buy one of these used 5-10 years old (stretched... price is key, I would prefer a cheaper model with less functions)

If you own or have heard any of them and can tell me what the best choice/value is based on sound and reliability, that would be a great help.

gano
gano OP
141 posts
 

@freediver The Rega came up in my search and I have a Rega TT. But I can't get over the look of the Brio

@ricmech23 thank you, I am considering Peachtree too, little hesitant about its looks

mike4597
86 posts
 

I cannot speak about the Rogue Sphinx specifically, but I have owned two Rogue Audio preamps, the RP-1 and the RP-7 is my current preamp.  The quality is first-rate, the performance is excellent—I am very pleased with the RP-7, and the company is very responsive to customer questions.  I have emailed them several questions, and they have responded promptly and thoroughly.  Rogue produces are made in Pennsylvania, and they will actually perform upgrades to many existing customer products to bring them up to late model standards.  I have the black version of the RP-7, which I think is quite attractive without appearing exotic.

corelli
974 posts
 

With your limited budget, you could consider the Denon PMA 1600NE.  This was overstocked and replaced by the new 1700.  It is being offered at $1000, half off its normal price.  It look great and sounds great but is fundamentally a neutral amp.  May not be for you if you need something warmer.

blackbag20
452 posts
 

Sim would be great if you find one within budget.

You might consider Atoll and Classe used as well.

I love the Primare esthetics!!

I would check out The Music Room and proceed ...

Good luck

BTW, have heard no complaints from AVA gear over the years ... 

mesch
3,476 posts
 

Which phonostage and CD player do you own? 

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