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Best Integrated w/ Phono-In under $350

I have decided to get my feet in the world of vinyl. I am trying to get educated and put together a system at the same time. But the amp part of it has me very confused.

I am on a fairly limited budget and really want to find a good starter amp under $350. Aside from needing to have a phono-in I really have no other requirements. New or used is fine.

Some I've looked at are the Marantz PM5003 (seen a few at the top of my budget), the NAD C325BEE (have yet to see one available anywhere), and a few others. But like I said, I am pretty well wrapped around the axle now and would appreciate some guidance from those who are more worldly about these things.

Thanks.
dmw16
episteme
55 posts
 
The "go vintage" suggestions are good ones. I'd go with that.

However, it you do want a newer integrated amp, I'd plan on not using the built in phono pre (if it even has one). You will have better luck using a separate phono pre at around the $100 price point (NAD PP2, etc.). (You could use something cheaper until you raise the funds... they start very low.)
mhedges
180 posts
 
There is a Sony GX9ES reciever on ebay right now for a very reasonable buy-it-now. I don't think you would be able to do much better for the $$$.

Mark
andrewdoan
223 posts
 
Under $300.00, I would buy the Pio Elite A35 R for less than $200.00 if you are not a head banger type of listener. In-expensive yet very musical. Best of all, you will get it brand new in box. For $299.00 extra, you can get a brand new in box Energy RC10. For less than $200.00, get the Pio BDP 51fd and you will have an awesome CDP with Wolfson Dacs. That's good budget system .Good luck.
cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
Sterophile had a very good review of the Marantz PM5003 and said the following about it's phono section.

"Still, I was skeptical that a $450 integrated, however well made and with however many features, could also include a high-quality phono stage. I expected to hear the sound of a throwaway phono stage. I was wrong. I ended up spending nearly half my time with the Marantz listening to vinyl—I was so pleased with its sound that I just kept playing black disc after black disc."

http://stereophile.com/integratedamps/marantz_pm5003_integrated_amplifier/
inna
7,296 posts
 
Used Audiolab 8000A made in England could be the best choice. It sounds excellent, has acceptable phono stage and is very reliable.
I think there is one right now on ebay.
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