2. amps-preamps
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Reasonably priced integrated to power KEF Q65.2?

I just picked up a used pair of KEF Q65.2 speakers, and now I need an integrated amp to drive them. Need to keep it under $1,000, and closer to $500 if at all possible. System will be used primarily for two-channel movies and TV, but may occasionally spin some silver discs, too. Amp must have remote, preferably for input selection as well as volume. Strong preference for new in this case, but might consider used. Thinking NAD, Cambridge, and the like.

Anyone have experience with these KEFs? My impression is that they are fairly easy to drive, but an expert opinion would be helpful. Thanks.
jpbach
celtic66
1,651 posts
 
Rega Brio $700 new.
hifisoundguy
630 posts
 
Anthem INT-225 is a REAL SLEEPER!.. I went and listened to one and I was SHOCKED at how good it SOUNDED and NOT just for the PRICE!.. This solid-state amp sounded more like a really good TUBE amp!. I liked this amp better than the very very high priced Mcintosh amp I also heard there. You can get one of these on the used market for around $1000 or $1100....Major-Bang-For-Your-BUCK!...
timlub
2,039 posts
 
I don't know the Kef's sensitivity, but if they are 88 or higher, you can pick up a Audio Refinement Complete in the $500.00 range. Anyone that has sat in front of a complete will tell you "What a nice surprise". I owned one at one time and have regretted selling it. I came back to seperates. The Complete was better than many seperates that I have owned.
jpbach OP
25 posts
 
Thanks for your replies.

For new integrateds, I narrowed it down to NAD C326BEE and Cambridge 550A or 650A. If I weren't an audiophile, I'd go buy one of these and live happily ever after. But the audiophile in me wants more. I worry that any of these three choices would struggle with the bass in the three-way KEFs.

Seems like I may have to buy used in order to get more power within my budget (<$1,000). The NAD C372 has lots of power, but seems to have a rep for blowing up and / or damaging speakers. Used pre/pow combos like a Rotel RC/RB-1070 might fit the bill.

One refinement in the requirements: I want inputs selectable by the remote, so I don't have to get up every time I switch from cable to dvd to Roku.
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