2. amps-preamps
  3. 1093209374

Best $500-$700 amp/preamp or integrated

Opinions please.

I will soon be looking for an amp/preamp combo, or intetgrated amplifier for $500-$700 (new or used). The preamp must have a remote that controls volume and source. The solid state amp should have about 70-150 watts/channel. The amp will be driving relatively easy-to-drive 8 ohm speakers. If I go with an integrated design I would like it to have pre-outs for later expansion.

I prefer a somewhat warmer sound, but a transistor amp, not tubes. I may consider a tube preamp. The Bryston B-60r has sounded a little harsh to me when I have listened. I very much liked my Magnum-Dynalab MD-308 that I regretfully must sell. It has a high current design that makes a huge difference in the music. For music I like, see my post here:

forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1093182447&read&3&4&

Has anyone heard the Parasound P/HP-850 preamp --- HCA-750A power amp combination?
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key_metric OP
76 posts
 
Thanks for the advice! You are right on with part of the Audio Refinement recommendation. I heard some Audio Refinement separates while auditioning speakers. Imaging, soundstaging and warmth were some of the best I have heard. The sound was just incredible, except for the bass. The lower end lacked substance/slam which is very important to me. Hooking up my MD-308 to the same speakers made a huge difference in the slam and control in the lower registers

Has anyone heard the Jolida JD-1501RC? This looks interesting.
www.jolida.com/catalogue/jd1501rc.html

Additional info:
I have not liked the sound of any NAD equipment. Some Rotel has sounded good, but I don't know about their latest offerings. My favorite (lets face it, it's a dream on my budget) amp that I have heard lately is the Macintosh MA-6900.
key_metric OP
76 posts
 
Tripper and/or Mcfavre4:
How does the Roksan Kandy compare to the Roksan Caspian?
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