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Inexpensive Integrated for GMA Europas

Hello All,

I need some suggestions! I'm helping some friends put together an inexpensive system. So far I've lined up a Cambridge Audio D500SE CDP (I've owned this myself, and it's quite good for the money) and a pair of GMA Europas. I'm looking for an integrated to drive these speakers. The room is moderate size, around 12x18x9. My budget is $400 to $500, and a remote is not necessarily required. I'm thinking Jolida 1501, which has 12AX7 input and SS output sections and provides 100wpc. They don't want a real tube amp, too complicated for them. Any other good matches? Thanks.

PS - as for cabling, I'm thinking cheap: romex or Home Depot 12 gage wire for speakers. Any thoughts?
peter_s
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drubin
3,274 posts
 
In my home theatre, I drive Europas with one of the Panasonic digital AV receivers. Terrific results in my application, though for music-only, I can't say. Might want more power. But you can get these receivers for around $300 new.
mschamberlin3865
14 posts
 
I was looking at this price range for an integrated amp. I ended up buying at Cayin TA30 from Bizzy Bee (modified) for about $900 and haven't looked back. I love the sound. I'm happy and content.

Regarding speaker wire, I got some cheap wire ($75) from Audio Magic per Roy's recommendation. Yes. I have the Europas too. My interconnects are Cryo 3 Virtual Dynamics connected to a modified Sony CE-775.
jdcrox
119 posts
 
Strong second on the Cayin. Too complicated? I havent touched mine in almost 5 months. Great match.
maxxc
177 posts
 
I agree with Tom on the Norh. Have speakers ranging from 85db effeciency to 92 db and previously having a 40wpc Jolida 202A tube amp, there is no way a 9wpc tube amp would have enough in some 89db speakers, for myself at least.

I would go with your original idea of the Jolida 1501A.
philefreak
423 posts
 
Fellows, If there is one thing I've learned in Audio is. Never say what will or will not work. Always try it.(within reason) I use a Korneff 45 amp (2 watts) to drive my GMA C-3s and it is wonderful. I've had the Europas on the same amp. It was not quite as strong as on the C-3s. That's when I tried a 300B on the Europas and it was magical. The Norh just happens to be a very good 9 watt integrated in this guys budget. In fact, the Norh beats a lot of amps that cost as much as 5 times it's price!
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