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Pass INT-25, split decision and maybe option?

I recently bought a used INT-25 to drive my PureAudioProject Trio15Classic. I have never been so torn by an amp as by this one! On one hand the details are addictive, but on the other hand, the details can be so distractive that I struggle to listen to the music. The INT-25 does do space really well and that’s definitely something I love and look for in an amp. I do miss some of the midrange magic and the warmth that a tube amp brings as well.

 

At this point, I’m not sure the INT-25 is going to stay. There’s so many things I love about it, but other things that distracts me from listening to the actual music.

 

I also miss some of the warmth that tubes bring. Is there such a thing as an integrated tube (or hybrid) that retains all the strength of the INT-25, but adds the midrange magic and warmth of the tube amp? Don’t mind if I lose some of the distracting details in the recording, but don’t want to give up too much of that. The PAP's do like a bit of power (the INT-25 is definitely sufficient), so low power SET's are not likely where I'd go.

128x128audiojan
audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
421 posts
 

I'm pretty set on keeping my Silversmith Fidelium cables. Of all the cables I've tried over the years (and they're quite a few and almost all more expensive than the Silversmith's), these the most neutral, detailed, yet smooth cables I've tried.

Same goes for the digital front end. Replacing the PS Audio DirectStream Sr (with multiple modifications) would cost way more than replacing the amp.

Also, I'm not going back to separates again. I've had some many over the years and the simplicity of an integrated is getting more appealing the older I get.

 

So I'm either going to stay with the INT-25 (and there's a lot that I love about it!) or I'm going to a tube integrated (and there's a lot I love about tubes).

 

I do appreciate all the input and options offered up.

jonwolfpell
407 posts
 

Might want to check out the Roger’s High Fidelity 65 V - 2 tube integrated. Superior build quality, lifetime warranty & sounds great if powerful enough for you. 

swede58's avatar
swede58
134 posts
 

@audiojan What happened to your Diablo 300 and W/P 8’s?

decooney
2,183 posts
 

@audiojan ..." these the most neutral, detailed, yet smooth cables I've tried."

 

Yep.  Exactly what the INT-25 is showing you more of too. More neutral, more detail, less bloom.  And so it goes.   

bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker
211 posts
 

@audiojan - Over the last five years I’ve tried to listen to as many amps as possible. One amp that stands out in my mind is the Audio Research I-50. I originally ordered one when we were first coming out of COVID. Unfortunately, supply chains were slowing things down so I cancelled.

And I regret it! 

 

The I-50 was gorgeous sounding. And it had just that touch of warmth you are seeking. Based on your description, I suspect it’s exactly what you are looking for.

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