Integrated amp + dac for Focal


Hello!

Looking for recommendations for an integrated amp with built-in DAC. Main inputs will be mac mini usb + optical for mostly 2ch music and some HT use. Will be used with Focal Aria 948 in 8 X 15 x 38 ft room. The NAD C372 with a Cambridge DacMagic 100 is what I'm looking to replace with the new unit.

I'd prefer to buy used and like:
Pass X250 (keeping the dacmagic dac)
Parasound Halo Integrated "HINT 6" 160 W
Cary si-300.2d


What do you think?

Thank you!


disector88

Showing 1 response by mechans

As an owner of Focal speakers I can attest to their tendency towards the analytic and bright sound.  It took me some time to discover that I needed tube power amps for them to live up to their potential.  I don't know which integrated to recommend but  tube output is necessary IMHO.
The amps I found to work beautifully are Opera Consonance Cyber 800s.  They are tube monoblocks, their price even new, is far from prohibitive.  They do require a pre amp so ultimately they may be more than you want to spend, or trouble with, although easy to use.