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Need Some Help Choosing an Integrated Amp

Hi Folks:

My current system includes an ARC SP-16 and 150.2 amplification. I am considering moving in a different direction--going with a quality integrated amp and a separate, high quality phono stage to be fed by a new analogue rig. Right now I want to focus on replacing the ARC equipment with an integrated. I value build quality, tonal authenticity, good bottom end control and drive, PRat, and a three dimensional soundstage. Tubes are OK but I'm leaning toward solid state. Budget would be around $4k new or used. The amp will drive 97db efficient Daedalus DA-1.1's with an Esoteric X-03se as the source.

I'd like to end up with something that is as good or better than what I am using for electronics right now when running my digital front end. Any help or advice is appreciated. I've seen a few interesting products from Bryston, Ayre, Pass Labs and Sugden.
dodgealum
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
The Musical Fidelity A5 is one of the finest integrateds out there cost no object. This component has continued to improve over the past six months and, powering Vandersteen 2Ce signatures, provides a wide soundstage with the sweetness of tubes. Detail, extension, balance, freedom from fatigue; I couldn't ask for more in an integrated and I have owned and listened to many. Several audio buddies of mine that have listened to this system extensively agree.
chashmal
605 posts
 
I would check out the Pathos and the Unico Unision. They are less expensive, but every bit as good as amps costing way more (price=hype much of the time). I also think the Audiomat is worth a listen, but it might be a bit laid back for your tastes from what you describe.

I personally hate the Plinius and the Naim stuff. It sounds pleasant enough, but ultimately unemotional and a bit bright and dead to my ear. I like at least a tube in the pre stage to liven things up, thus the Unison, which is a solid state amp section and tube pre I believe.
foster_9
1,638 posts
 
Dodgealum: I preach this often. Much of the satisfaction in an integrated has to do with how well it matches up with the speakers and other components in the system. (true of all components) My case in point: the Musical Fidelity A5 (which I almost purchased). One fellow posted he recommends it period. Another fellow says it's "one of the finest integrateds, out there cost no object." Another fellow says flatly,"I wouldn't recommend the Musical Fidelity A5. Match it up with the right speakers and components and it obviously has impressed the heck out of a couple guys who posted here. I'm sure it would be very satisfying, but in a mismatched system not so much. So whatever integrated you choose, seek out those who know of a strong speaker match.
jeffjarvis
257 posts
 
I recently saw an Accuphase E550 go at auction for $3500...a very god deal.
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
It seems with those 97db speakers you could buy a 300B based SET like the Audio Note Meishu (I just bought one myself) and live happily ever after. This amp has a giant 3D soundstage, terrific slam (9 watts!) a seemingly endless amount of detail and is very neutral.

I would put it up against anything listed so far and expect it to come out on top (an unbiased POV) :^)

I know, I know, no remote

oh well...
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