2. amps-preamps
  3. 1288757151

Conrad Johnson, Krell, Creek integrated amp??

I have eliminated my integrated search down to approx 3 units: Conrad Johnson CA-200; the Krell S-300i; Creek Destiny 2. The Creek and Krell are in $2500 price range. The CJ retails for about $6600. However, I am aiming or hoping to buy used. I have the Creek SE5350 Classic which is very good, but I want to make a major improvement in sound quality. Unfortunately, there are no CJ dealers in my state to audition the CA-200 I heard the Krell briefly but with no solid impression. I have read a few comments about it having some electronic problems. The Creek Destiny 2 is a strong choice, but I have not heard it and only read reviews on the original Destiny........ All advice welcomed. Thank you, Jim
sunnyjim
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
To Unsound: Yes, I have considered separates, but reluctantly, because I downsized from them about 5 years ago so as to have less boxes and cables. My only thoughts have been an older Conrad Johnson pre-amp which would be modded by RHB Sound Design. Their mods don't come cheap. I previously owned a CJ PV-8 tube pre-amp which was modded by the owner of RHB about 15 years ago. Even if I could buy a PV-10, or PV-12 with phono stage, I would be looking at about $1500 to $1700, and I would still need an amp. I know little about McCormack products despite having seen several reviews over the years. I think the Creek SE5350 has a pre-out, though it might be just for subwoofer. I am sure the McCormack would make a difference in the sound, but the question is how good is the pre-amp section of the Creek integrated. Though, what you propose might be worth a try, if I can find a deal on a used Mack' DNA-1 amp. I could always sell the Creek and buy a pre-amp if I still was not satisfied with the sound. I realize there is tons of separates out there, but the question is which ones and how much, and will the price justify the improvement over a more expensive integrated. I have read and been told that Exposure 2010S is a very musical IA. Thanks for the suggestion
goblue711
30 posts
 
MF A5 or A5.5
timlub
2,043 posts
 
Jim,
My first recommendation was for a Dussun, because of the sheer value, Unsound is absolutely right about the McCormick, but I clearly understand what you are saying about the integrated, I have fought with it myself. If your budget allows, I haven't heard any integrated better than the Coda... I'm sure they are out there, but I haven't heard it. This is a real gem. As you probably know the Coda guys came from Threshold/Pass. They really do have that same flavor and this integrated is a real winner that has tremendous current and is stable at 2 ohms. It is clearly on the FAST, DYNAMIC, RICH AND ACCURATE side of things, yet very smooth, but it DOES NOT sound Tubey at all. So if you are considering Tubes for that reason, this may not be the answer. Otherwise, I would give this a hard look. I hope this helps, Tim
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
I posted this thread somewhat differently the first time. My question now is focused on a British integrated amp LFD MKIII which will shortly be replaced by the MKIV. It is 60RMS with no remote or phono stage.Its design is minimalist with no indicators as to modes. Nevertheless, the few reviews I have seen have been excellent, claiming its 60RMS and high current can handle any speaker load and invest the sound with vigor and naturalness. LFD claims the new MKIV is better but does not say how. Therefore, I would like some advice about this unit and this company. Despite enthusiastic reviewers, the buyer don't seem to get much for $3195--and I am don't I-POD dock or theater bypass etc. I am looking to buy the MKIII used if possible
ckoffend
684 posts
 
Don't know it at all, but anybody who claims their amp (integrated or power) can drive ANY speaker based on 60 watts is not to be trusted. There needs to be a strong caveat with such a statement (such as sensitivity rating of the speaker and stability [ie. 8 ohms with little variance]).
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