2. amps-preamps
  3. 1260774925

Looking for suggestions...

...on an integrated amp, at least 50 watts per channel, prefer 2 sets of speaker outs, st output for powered sub, phono input, and one balanced in would be a real plus. This will be used in an evolving system, mainly to audition mixes I've done in my home recording studio, and do light mastering - so "neutrality" is preferred over "musicality". Iow, I need to hear what's been recorded, with as little flattery as possible. Also will be used for general hifi enjoyment though...

Caveat here is that I'm on a low budget - can spend just up to $1200 on the int amp, so likely looking at 2nd hand. So far I've liked the Exposure 2010 in this price range, but it lacked a few of the features I'd really like. Offers, suggestions, recommendations much appreciated.
fretman

Showing 7 responses by fretman

fretman OP
8 posts
 
I'll see if that's still n the newsstands. There was an NAD M3 that came up on the classifieds for $1600 recently, That was still a little over my budget, but I'm kicking myself for not grabbing it... A 2nd hand Bryston seems like it would also be a good fit, if a deal comes my way...
fretman OP
8 posts
 
Reviews on the NAD C372 sound perfect. No phono stage or balanced ins though - is there *anything* at this price point that has these features? I realize I can get an out board phono pre, and adapters for my balanced gear, but it sure would be nice to have it already on the amp!
fretman OP
8 posts
 
The Atoll looks nice - I love the simplicity of it (really no need for balance, tone controls imho), and the reviews stress the neutrality of it, again, good. But - only one pair speakers, no (included) phono input, and no balanced inputs - I'd really like to have two or more of those features if possible. Maybe I'm wanting/asking too much...
fretman OP
8 posts
 
I guess for my purposes, these are more "must haves" than for many hifi users - I'm integrating it into a pro-audio setup (my recording studio), where all the connections are balanced, so a balanced in would be nice. As for the 2nd set of speakers, it's for AB comparisons with a radically different set of speakers, good for checking multitrack audio mixes. Again I realize these are things that many audiophiles don't necessarily need, but they seem to be present on quite a few hifi amps nonetheless. Just not the ones in my price bracket!
fretman OP
8 posts
 
I managed to pick up a Rotel 1052, dirt cheap, on Craig's List. This is not nearly as high-end as my goal, and has too many gozinta gozoutas, but it'll keep me happy until I find the right piece. Question - how much better, if any, is an NAD C372 in comparison? If it's too similar, I'm definitely gonna have to stay focused on the higher end stuff.
fretman OP
8 posts
 
OK - never mind, I see that Rotel vs NAD has been well covered in other threads. Upwards and onwards! :)
fretman OP
8 posts
 
Given my original post, how about an Anthem 225? This has all the features I want except for a 2nd pair of speakers, is priced so that I could stretch my budget a little and get a new one (or find a used one), and seems to get as good reviews as anything. Anyone have experience with this amp, opinions pro or con? Thanks in advance.
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