I've been pondering finally moving anyway from my vintage Kenwood receiver to some some hifi (or at least midfi) separates. The amp will be driving a pair of KEF Q35's. Maybe these aren't my long term speakers, but this is what I think I'll live with for now. I've been reading posts here and reading reviews incessantly (it's a sickness). I want to narrow down my lists so that I'm confident in jumping when the right component is available. I'm hoping people could comment on any weaknesses (for my budget range) on the pieces I'm looking at. Or a unit that's not on this list that I should consider. I have a small apartment and want a remote with volume control for the preamp. My budget for them is about $1500, which needs a phono preamp either separate or built in. Oh, in case this helps I'll be using a Kyocera PL-701 Turntable; a Kenwood KT-7550 Tuner; and a modded Lite DAC-AH. I listen to rock (alt, old and new), bluegrass, "alt-country" (Jimmie Dale Gilmore, etc), jazz, female jazz singers (like Betty Carter, Billie Holiday and Blossom Dearie), and some classical. My daughter listens to the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, musical soundtracks, etc.
Amps: Bryston 3B SST; Rotel RB-1070; Forte 3a; Anthem PVA-2; Belles 150A.
Preamps: Audio Mirror PP1; TAD 150; NAD C162; Musical Fidelity A3cr; AES-3; conrad johnson PFR.
I'm a noobie, but from reading and browsing agon I've got an appreciation for all the passionate members. Thanks! |
