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Integrated Amp upgrade?

Hello all,

Looking to upgrade my Cambridge Azur 851a.

I will be pairing with Spendor A6Rs (no sub). Two sources include Gold Note PH-10 & Mytek Brooklyn DAC+

My budget is $2K (new or used) and my top three choices right now are:
-Electrocompaniet PI-2
-Ayre AX-7e
-LFD LE IV

My room is on the small side, and I usually listen with the volume on the high side of medium. All genres of music.

Thanks,
Rob


128x128robelvick

Showing 2 responses by taww

taww's avatar
taww
124 posts
 
Ah sorry missed that you got the Electrocompaniet - let us know how you like it vs the Cambridge!
taww's avatar
taww
124 posts
 
I'm currently using the Ayre AX-7e with some light modifications as my reference and think it's a special amp, but to state the obvious, it's not for everyone or every system. It excels at speed, articulation, resolution and micro dynamics, but prefers easier loads and can lean on the dry side. There are 3 relatively straightforward mods that will make it sound a fair bit more liquid. Unsure of match with Spendors and Mytek (I'm currently requesting the Mytek for review).

A used Bryston B60 is a also very nice piece, but not in the same league as the Ayre.

I've also heard the Belles Aria is fantastic but David Belles keeps quite busy and I haven't been able to get one for review yet - I'll check in with him again.
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