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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.
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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...
david12
1,454 posts
 
I went back from separates to integrated and never looked back. The Lavardin is a great choice, very transparent, detailed, neutral. It lacks a little base grunt if your a rock fan. I used it for 2 years with 94db Living Voice Avatars to great effect. I think a remote option is available. I also agree with Philojet, a SET would be a great choice, I happen to prefer 845's. I use a Viva Solista, best amp ever in my system, also Mastersound, Dared I believe. I certainly envy you for having those speakers. I am sure Lou should know what his speakers like and he says MF, can't ignore that either.
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knownothing
1,584 posts
 
Blue Circle, Naim SuperNait - are super choices in my opinion. Can't agree with hater above. Also have heard the Musical Fidelity A5 sound very very good with Totem and Revel speakers, but don't know they compare to yours. Might also consider PrimaLuna DiaLogue 2 for a tube job.
chashmal
605 posts
 
Knownothing: I should clarify my dislike for Naim by saying that their top of the line is way better than the lower end stuff, and the disparity is shocking. I think for the money the lower priced stuff doesn't do it. Still, what I hear that I do not like in the lower priced stuff I hear as 'tendencies' (read: aesthetic tendencies) in all their equipment. It's just not for me. I like more dynamic and emotional gear.
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knownothing
1,584 posts
 
Fair enough. One might say Naim's lower end stuff relies on some timing tricks that make music sound "better" than it really does(?), perhaps almost a gimmick. But I like it. Whatever floats one's boat I guess...
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