2. amps-preamps
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Suggestions for a budget amp

Well, im thinking about upgrading my system (just started out and am still in high school so my budget is a major constraint). Basically im trying to build a sterio system that will last me until im out of college and have a "real" job. My current system includes NHT-SB3 speakers, Onkyo TX-8211 sterio reciever a sony CDP-CE275 cd changer, Furmann Q-2312 EQ, and blue-jeans cabling. Its my opinion that the Onkyo is what holds the system back the most at this point so im looking to replace it and fight the upgrade bug until i can afford it. I've looked at the Rotell RA-02 and the Nad C320Bee (the Nad is my favorite so far) but need more ideas (there HAVE to be more budget amps out there, right?). I also shopped around Yamaha's and Onkyo's sites, but their higher end stuff just adds more features, not much by the way of sound quality (from what i could tell by specs... may be wrong). Im looking for something that i can upgrade in stages down the line (i.e. unplugging the power amp section of a preamp and using a beefier seperate, or bi-amping... something like that). I dont need much power since ill be in dorm rooms or crowded appartments for the near future and even in my fair sized room now i rarely turn my 40 wpc Onkyo above 9:00 and its never been over 12:00. I listen to everything from Mozart to Metallica, except rap and pop. Even put in some country every now and then (I think its a law here in Texas ;-)
Thanks for your help,
-Dan-
dk89
klipschfan
176 posts
 
Luminous Audio-Axiom pre cost 125.00. A decent used amp can be had for 400-700. Belles 150 or Edge M-4 along with a few others all in this price range. Or you could save up for the Bryston integrated with a 20 year warranty. McIntosh MA6300 integrated will be out in May. The McIntosh would be worth thinking about-while costing more, you can will it to your grandchildren, best resale value in audio, they service everything they ever made, factor in the initial cost over a 30 year period and it will be money well spent. Best of luck!.
steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
Bryston B60 Integrated with pre-outs. It has a 20 year warranty and will hold it's value well.
dk89 OP
6 posts
 
In response to Jond's question about my budget... i'd like to stay below $400 maybe up to $500, but as my total investment so far is only $900 (ish) i dont want to spend a whole lot.
mcfarland
356 posts
 
Steuspeed has the right idea. Quality of watts certainly beats quantity. Also, in a college dorm you may have restrictions on how loud you can play and when you can play your equipment, so as to avoid disturbing fellow classmates. With that thought in mind you just might want to consider having at least one headphone jack and a good set of headphones.
txp1
148 posts
 
I agree with Bignerd100 that you should be very careful with volume so the Onkyo doesn't clip badly and fry your speakers.

However, I think you should keep what you have and save your money for activities in college. College is about learning, experiencing things, meeting people and having a good time! But keep up those grades too! Audio equipment can come later. Besides, you could get a good amp and your speakers could still get damaged in a party, or the amp could get stolen, etc, etc.
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