2. amps-preamps
  3. 1116033927

Best bargain integrated amp?

I'm in the market for a new integrated amp. I currently own a Cambridge Audio 640A, but am begining to notice its short commings. I'm looking for a more refined amp with more power. I listen to mostly rock, jazz, acoustic guitar stuff: Leo Kottke, Nick Drake etc. in that order.

I would like to go second hand and spend no more than $700.00, and I guess my question is will I notice a considerable improvement sound quality with a second hand amp of this price?

I'm interested in the Odyssey Audio Cyclops but have yet to find it used. What other units should I consider?

My system:
Speakers: Acoustic Energy Aelite 2
CDP: ShengYa CD-s10 (tube)
Interconnects: Kimber Kable Timbre
Speaker Cables: PS Audio X-Stream Plus

Thanks for the help.
catt3

Showing 1 response by catt3

catt3 OP
5 posts
 
Eric,

While I'm satisfied with the Cambridge, the bass seems to be vague at times; sometimes it all sounds smeared together like I'm hearing one note. Although it is a tad bright this doesn't bother me as much as the bass.

Also, I had mentioned the Clycops because of its minimalist design. I don't own any vinyl, don't listen to the radio, and don't have a tapedeck or any tapes for that matter. My entire music collection is in CDs. Why pay for something I'm not going to use?

Are there any other "minimalist" integreated amps out their besides the Cyclops that I should consider?
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