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Integrated amp recommendation

I recently bought a used pair of Swiss-made Piega p4L MKII floor-standing speakers. I am looking for a two-channel integrated amp to pair with them. Budget: $1,000.

Among the stated speaker specs: applied power rating 20-200 watts, sensitivity 89 db, 4 ohms impedance and frequency response 38 Hz-50 kHz. To me, the speakers’ sound can be described as natural, detailed and transparent, not aggressive and maybe slightly lacking in bass. The room is 12 x 20, carpeted but relatively bare. I listen primarily to classic rock, classic jazz and classical. I use a Bluesound Node 2i music streamer and CDs. Bluetooth would be nice but not essential.

Thank you for any assistance.

phil59

Showing 2 responses by dcyyz

dcyyz
2 posts
 

I'm using a Rega Brio, which is on the warmer side. I have it with a Node 2i and a Bluesound Vault in the mix (so, FLAC CD files), with Totem Sttaf floor-standers not are likely not as detailed as your speakers. The room sounds about the same size and I listen to similar music. Very pleased with the set up. The Brio is just 50 watts into 8 Ohms, but it's a very confident little amp. A new Brio is ~$1100 USD, though I got it used for about half that. They come up used and move quickly, so it could be something to try, knowing that you can move it along easily if it's not 'the one'. That was my plan, but it's a keeper. As far as Bluetooth goes, you've got that with the Node 2i. 

dcyyz
2 posts
 

@phil59 - some good suggestions made here, but I'm with you on the 'stick to budget' approach. Especially buying used as you can turn things over and try different things to make that budget work for you before stretching it. Also stay focused on the character you're after - you noted warm for a modest room, and not all the suggestions go along with that. What's 'best' for one room and speaker may not be for yours, and reviews can help figure out prospects and eliminate others.

You asked about buying vintage used and I don't know if you got a response. Audiogon, US Audio Mart (and Canuck Audio Mart, too, as others mentioned the $ makes it worth it if you're in the US) and a handful of other sites rank sellers and provide feedback that can increase confidence. 

Buying used and buying vintage are different things, too. People will swear by 70s-80s stuff, but a lot can change in a device over 40 years, so buying used items built in the past 10-20 years by brands known to last is a generally safe bet.

Re suggestions around a DAC. In your price point, the Node DAC delivers nicely. I've tried a few DACs with my Node 2i and only one was truly 'better' across the board, the Denafrips Ares ii, but only just a bit better given my modest amps, so the jury is still out on whether the value is there, given it cost almost double the price of the Node itself.

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