Integrated Amp - Looking to replace my amp & pre

If you're switching to get compact size (and more visual appeal) without sacrificing too much performance, you might consider:

Tubes Pathos Classic One/Digit
SS Bel Canto

Each is eye candy in its own way (especially the Pathos), each is small, and each sounds very good with the right speakers. I've used both with SF Cremonas with excellent results.

Marty

The Jeff Rowland Design Group's Continuum 500 is an incredible integrated amplifier with one of the best pre-amp stages possible. There's been lots of discussion here on A'gon, so I won't repeat that, but, instead, suggest that you search for reviews and comments on this forum.

Dave

Ok, why make you work? Here's a Review of the JRDG C-500:

Continuum 500 Review

Dave

what about Einstein?

http://www.aaudioimports.com/ShowProduct.asp?hProduct=25

Just sold my Karan KA i-180 (due to downsizing for financial reasons) and can't recommend it highly enough. Assuming you like tons of power and a musical, tube-like presentation with a huge soundstage and incredible detail. Mine was a current model. It likely bests most of the "usual suspects" that are listed here, and easily beat some very expensive ($12k range), well regarded separates in my system. I was very sorry to see it go...

Another great one is the VAC Avatar Super. Have heard great things about the Lavardin IT. Might want to check out the Ensemble Fuoco: made in Switzerland with very high-dollar parts, tube linestage/SS amp, tons of power reserves (used bluebook around $4800). There are some very under-the-radar units out there, especially some of the better european brands that are not well known or unknown here. Graaf GM50b is another if you like tubes, nearly impossible to beat that unit for a tube integrated.