2. amps-preamps
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Integrated under 1k (hopefully 500) for Wharfedale Dentons & Snell

Trying to upgrade my system to better match some of new (to me) speakers. Interested in comparing the pros and cons of going vintage vs new(er) and where diminishing returns kick in based on my environment. Not opposed to used and do not really need a DAC as I have a Schiit Mimby. Listening at mostly low levels in a small room to a huge array of music, but mostly chamber, vocal, ambient, neo-classical, and some modernish pop. After a LOT of research I’m tending towards a few options:

  • Older/Cheaper (all between $150 and 350)

-NAD C740/C340/326BEE

-Rotel (like RA-02/931)

-new cheap Onkyo (9010 etc)

  • Newer/Not cheaper

-Jolida JD301 ($500)

-Arcam A19 ($600)

-Marantz 6005 ($400)

-Rega Brio-R ($550)

  • Big Stretch

-Hegel H80 ($900)

-Naim Nait 5i ($850)

-Krell 300i ($1100)

-Rogue Sphinx ($900)

-Moon 220i ($1000)

I know this seems so all over the map, just trying to decide what makes sense based on my speakers and listening preferences. Open to other thoughts as well. Thanks!
joincoolkidclub

Showing 3 responses by joincoolkidclub

joincoolkidclub OP
19 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses so far- I guess I left out some vital information: I intend to keep the Snells long term, but the Wharfedale’s may not stick around as long. I’ve been finding their sound a little too unresolving for my taste. That said:
 
@stevecham: I’m worried the NAD may further complicate my concerns  about the Wharfdales. Too much warmth? 

@freediver: The Cayin looks like it’s a bit of a stretch, but thanks for the idea.

@donvito I‘m fairly ambivalent about Yamaha. Is there a particular model you’d recommend?

Overall, hoping to find an integrated amp that I can keep around while I audition other speakers in addition to those I already have. Perhaps my title was misleading and I should reframe in a new thread: Any neutral high performing integrated amps available for between $200-1000 that work with a wide array of speakers with sensitivity  ranging from 88db-95db?
joincoolkidclub OP
19 posts
 
Thank again everyone- the NAD (326) keeps coming up as a recommendation, and seems rather appealing considering the price. The S500/501-801 seems alright but I'm not sure I really need that much power.

I guess the decision will likely come down to whether I should commit to the NAD versus trying to score a deal on something higher end...
joincoolkidclub OP
19 posts
 
Got it- I'm going to match with what I've got currently (likely a NAD, though I've ready a Rega or Naim would make a nice pairing as well), and find the best overall pairing once I've met my perfect match. Thanks all!
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