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Best integrated for rock music under $1,500?

I'm currently seeking the best integrated amp for playing rock music that I can find for under $1,500 (although I'd really like to find something under $1,000, if at all possible!). The speakers I will be using will likely be PSBs - either the B25 or the M2. The "rock" in question is mostly late '60s/early '70s (e.g. Hendrix, Cream, Byrds, CSNY, Zeppelin, etc.), although I must say I also play some Jazz, Country and Classical as well! In any case, I want an amp that will keep up well with fast-paced stuff and give it some air, vitality and detail in the process.

From everything I've read online so far, I'm considering a Musical Fidelity 3.2 or a Creek 5350SE, although I'm also tempted to go low-budget with the NAD c 352. What do you all think?
suicaine
tone2222
10 posts
 
I agree on the great sound of NAD but also agree with the build quality issue. I also agree with going to Sansui - a few of their high-end integrates are quite powerful and have almost tubelike sound with lots of bottom end too so they can power many floorstanders. Personally though, I think the best NAD units still have better tonal quality when it comes to most bookshelf sized speakers. While I have a vested interest in suggesting Sansui (I have one I could part with) I would recommend going with a high-powered unit like the the AU-X901 - underrated 130 watts, massive power supply, XLR inputs etc..
suicaine OP
9 posts
 
The only thing with getting a more powerful amp is I can't crank it (because I live in an apartment), so I was thinking a less powerful amp would be better. However, maybe I'm wrong...Perhaps powerful amps can sound good at lower volumes as well?
suicaine OP
9 posts
 
By the way, I've never heard of Sansui before...How do their amps compare to those made by Musical Fidelity, Creek, etc.? Do the Sansui amps sound as detailed, transparent, etc. as more expensive integrateds?
dpac996's avatar
dpac996
716 posts
 
"but surely there's something that would perform like an NAD but is better built? "
That would be the Master's Series components
They are like nothing before from NAD.
jndean
132 posts
 
I power the PSB Stratus Bronzes and Minis with a Marantz Reference Series PM-17 integrated amp and Sm-17 power amp. They have 60 watts per channel each and two SM-17s can be bridged for 200w/c. Marantz 17 series reference amps sound great with PSB and are no longer made but can be found on the used market. A used SM-17 is now for sale on this site for $575. I now use a tubed pre with mine.
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