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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
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
I drove a pair of JM Reynaud Trentes (88db) with a Audio Note Soro SE that has eighteen watts to very loud levels.

Numbers do not always tell the story, the Soro is a very robust eighteen watts and the JMR must have been an easy load because I could hardly tell the volume increase when I went to Audio Note kit 2 speakers (94db)
clio09
3,362 posts
 
That is encouraging. The Audio Kinesis Stormbringers are an easy load as well. I guess I'll know more in a week or so.
loose
239 posts
 
No question in my mind- look for an LFD and be done w/ it.

I've never heard a better sounding integrated amplifier - EVER. It is just so 'right' in so many ways.

If i were you, i'd also look into Sugden gear. I don't have personal experience w/ it, but if it's anything like what I've read, it could very well be your ticket.
gnpgnp
6 posts
 
Me too. I've owned a pair of PSB Sratus Gold i speakers for several years & wish to keep. Seems they crave power.
Tried & rejectred Creek5350SE as too polite-this was the original 85 Watt when it first came out and was more like $1,200 new.
Was going to get the Musical Fidelity Tri Vista-when one sees both Sterophile & The Absolute sound agree on enthusiastically recommending the identical product...
Alas, financial woes came on & I've focused the past few years on that, and certainly NOT audiophile gear.
I would surely appreciate feedback, particularly from folks with experience with the PSB Stratus Gold's....
My financial house is getting in order & I want to start thinking about this stuff again.
Just joined aidiogon today after stumbling upon it thru the internet which I have just gotten installed.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Gnpgnp, what is your budget? I assume you would consider new or used.
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