2. amps-preamps
  3. 191177-158118

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
155 posts
 

@bluorion I have heard great things about Belles, I never had success contacting them. Is it a hobby company that doesn't like to sell? ::)

 

@ml8764ag You are right. I am looking onto Vincent Audio used and demos, they are under a $1000!

bluorion
479 posts
 

@gano  I purchased mine (demo) from Audio Connection in NJ. Ask for Johnny Rutan---excellent dealer. https://www.audioconnect.com 

 

Hope this helps!

gano OP
155 posts
 

thanks @bluorion !

I will reach out to them.

stuartk
3,019 posts
 

@gano 

Don't know whether anyone has mentioned TMR (The Music Room). They offer trial period/returns on their used gear and are reputable. 

I believe Audio Connection offers these options on new gear -- not sure about used. Ask them. 

Good luck!

 

gano OP
155 posts
 

@stuartk absolutely

TMR charges for shipping and 5% restocking fee. It adds up to around $100 on a $1000 gear. Which is ok but when my budget is $800 it is a cut. 

There are about 5 companies that do accept returns and charge very little, mainly the shipping for new gear. 

Where I am out of ideas is about 4 different private seller items that meet my criteria. I have never heard those makes and models, and my only option to buy and resell in other words take on the risk that it may not work. 

If only there was a "dating app" for audiophiles that would facilitate people with various gear to visit each other and listen to what they are interested in.... and might buy, it could be even more fun.

Again, I am not complaining just brainstorming.

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