2. amps-preamps
  3. 1340735326

integrated shootout - Audio Refi, SimAudio or Edge

Hi everyone. I've been thinking of simplifying my system by consolidating my Audio Refinement Pre5 preamp with remote and Multi5 5 channel amp (only use 2 channels) to an integrated amp. I've read many great things about the Audio Refinement Complete Alpha integrated with the preamp outs but they are impossible to find now. With that said, there looks to be some nice choices for sale on this site. I really like the Audio Refinement sound (I like it better than Linn, and it beat out a Rogue Cronus Magnum also I had side-by-side in my system).

What would you guys do out of the following choices (rest of system is posted):

1. Keep my Audio Refinement separates?
2. Get a new Simaudio Moon i.5 (220i) integrated for $999 under warranty (10 years), sell / trade in Audio Refinement separates?
3. Get a used / demo Edge i3 integrated for $750, sell Audio Refinement separates, maybe also sell my Pro-ject phono tube box II preamp if the Edge i3 phono stage is better?
4. Keep looking for an Audio Refinement Complete Alpha with preamp outs?

TIA
sbrownnw

Showing 3 responses by sbrownnw

sbrownnw OP
686 posts
 
As I understand it, the AR integrated with preamp outs is the latest model.
sbrownnw OP
686 posts
 
Ssglx, can you notify me if you ever decide to sell your AR gear?
sbrownnw OP
686 posts
 
So, I want to add one more to this shootout. Has anyone heard the Marantz PM8004 that has also heard the Audio Refinement gear (tube like sound with SS control). If so, how do they compare? I would really like to pick up a Complete Alpha but they are very rare. The one up on this site for sale now looks pretty beat up for the price. The Marantz PM8004 has gotten very good reviews but it seems to be more neutral with maybe a touch of coolness vs the warmth of the Audio Refinement gear. The Marantz is a huge plus on availability plus having what seems to be a decent MM stage in case my main phono preamp goes on the fritz, like today when I dropped it off for warranty repair - damn tube gear ;).
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