I'll second freediver's recommendation of the Simaudio. I've owned three Simaudio integrateds over the last 30 years, have a 250i at the moment, and keep coming back because the sonics and build quality are so remarkable for the price compared to any of the half dozen other brands I've owned..
Need New amp or integrated...have some options
OK, posted a few days ago looking at a CLASSDAUDIO option to replace a dying McIntosh MC250. After lots more research, I dont think I am going that way now just to get this done, no time for testing. Thinking I am going to go integrated and use later as a backup. Been looking around on the Gon/USA/TMR etc for options and have seen a few things that I am either familiar with or have actually heard. In Hawaii, so it is a "blind faith Hail Mary" kind of buy for the most part. I see a Rega Elex mkii that gets good writeups at a good price for a demo unit. Also, some Rogue Sphinx V3/Magnum and Rotel A14mk2 and a larger Rotel 1572mk2 units and a few Marantz Model 50 and 30 and an Exposure 2510. Only one of these I have heard is the Rogue Sphinx in V3 form. All have enough power on paper, some allow for 2 sets of speakers which is a plus, some even have pre out option so I can use it as my pre with remote down the line. I probably sound a little crazy right now but I am trying to solve multiple problems (2 dead amps actually) and balance good sound now with options for down the road with this eventually being either a backup unit or moving to my office. I am interested especially in the Rega and Rotel input. I heard a Brio years ago and it impressed for what it was. Never heard modern Rotel. I like Marantz and had a PM8005 but thinking that I should try a different sound/pov. This stuff is entry level or one step up I know. (My wife quashed going into a higher investment by reminding me of other priorities (new car, paying for a river cruse she wants to do) so marital harmony takes precedence after 35 years.) Anyone familiar with the sound, operation or reliability of these units, I appreciate your input. There is no substitute for others considered opinions given no options to listen. I kind of just want to get this done as I have other pressing things to address. Mahalo.
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I am not a McIntosh guy, but from what I know everything mentioned is going to sound quite different. I like Musical Fidelity and Hegel suggestions, these will be a step up from the ones on your list. I owned a Rogue Sphinx V1, it did not wow me. I had a MF M3si and I really liked the sound, sweet. It was underpowered for my speakers, so I had to move on. The M6 has plenty of juice though, and there are some used ones out there for good prices. And yeah, don’t run two sets of speakers off of one amp. Good luck with your search. |
Maybe look at the Musical Fidelity M3si Integrated Amplifier? The M3si is unconditionally stable and will drive any appropriate loudspeaker with ease. |
@freediver is pointing you in a good direction. One other thing, since your are living remotely, the second hand market for the Hegel gear is very strong. If you bring it into your system and don't like it, you can sell it much easier. Not sure you can say that about the other brands you mentioned. Good luck, aloha. |
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