Integrated amp recommendations with A/B speaker

I went with a Creek 5350SE, primarily for it's high quality and the A &/or B speaker selector.

Highly recommend.

You will need to pay special attention to the amp's user manual because the 4 ohm load created by the Ninkas could present a problem if you intend to drive both sets of speakers simultaneously.

I have a NAD C375BEE which is a very capable integrated that has the A/B speaker settings. Even if purchased new, it is within your budget. NAD, however, does not recommend using both speaker settings simultaneously UNLESS ALL speakers being driven are 8 ohms or higher.

I can't speak for other manufacturers, but conceptually, it would make sense that a single amp capable of driving four separate 4 ohm loads would have to be a beast.

I'm interested to learn what else is recommended.

I'm pretty sure that the Harman Kardon HK-990 has two zones. It's a very unusual design with extensive DSP options and a robust Matti Otala derived high output power amp section that should (I'd think, but double check anyway) be stable into difficult loads. Probably worth checking out IMO.

Heard the new Rotel integrated at Audio Connection in NJ yesterday. Was really caught off guard. I was in shock as to how good it sounded for an affordable integrated. It even has balance inputs and the A/B that you are looking for. I think it's in your range and if so, it's a must listen to. I know Johnny from AC is on this board and you can tell him you are a member and he'll make sure it goes with your system. Good luck.

The HK990 occurred to me also, but it was recently discontinued so there may not be any new stock left. One possible exception: IF you're a CitiBank customer, the CitiDeals website (their 'rewards points' website) still lists new HK990s for $1299 + 700 rewards points. I can easily imagine though that they're out of stock even though the website shows them as in stock.