New Pre or Integrated for 2nd system, thoughts?


Looking to create a 2nd system inexpensively (max $500, new or used) in vacation home. Speakers are old but functional Thiel 1.2s, late 80s vintage NAD CDP and B&K ST 202. The B&K has 150 watts into 8 ohms but does not double down. The Thiels are a 4 ohm speaker which like high current. Pre has died. Not an absolute requirement but a remote would be nice. So the question is to go with a new Pre or Integrated? Would appreciate suggestions on which way to go and recommended gear. Thanks!
dokosan
I would go with a new/used preamp, with one exception.

NAD C 162 preamp - new, refurbished or used, $400 to $500 online. Typical NAD sound - musical and nicely rounded. good review here:
http://www.audioasylum.com/reviews/Preamplifier-SS/NAD/C-162/general/409399.html

Adcom GFP-750 preamp - highly regarded - buy it if you can find one used for under $500. Good review here:
http://www.stereophile.com/solidpreamps/133/

Rotel RC 1070 preamp - good, but not as strong as the other two IMHO, available for $500 new and much less used online. Good review here:
http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0601/rotel.htm

Here are the exceptions to the preamp recommendation:

NAD C 372 integrated amplified - used for around $500 (if you can find one). Powerful, musical, a hifi bargain. Good review here:
http://www.stereophile.com/integratedamps/1006nad/

Cambridge Azur 640A v2 integrated amp - this has won lots of praise and only $400 new right now at Audio Advisor, but can 120W into 4 ohms do the job for your Thiels? Over the top reviews here:
http://www.cambridgeaudio.com/product_reviews.php?PID=105&Title=Press+reviews

Other than the specific recommendations above, older NAD and Rotel preamps are options if you can find them in good shape.

No matter what you choose - I would save some money for a good power cord and some decent interconnects and speaker wires if you don't already have them. My view is that a decent preamp/integrated with a good power cord beats a slightly more decent piece tied to the wall via some lamp cord.
I haven't heard it, but the Onkyo A-9555 (integrated) gets a lot of buzz, and new comes in under your $500 limit.

It would be a stretch, but you might be able to find a Musical Fidelity A3cr integrated for near your price point.

Michael