2. amps-preamps
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Need assistance in selecting an integrated/power amp.

I have the Marantz AVA and the MM8077 (For HT 7.1). My room is fully insulated and is 11 feet x 22 feet. I use the Oppo BDP-95 as the source, and speakers are JBL L Studio Series ( L890 as mains, LC2 as the Centre, L830 as the surround and the Bose 301’s as the Surround Back) Yes, I do understand that I need to upgrade my speakers and I was considering the Polk LSiM 707 and Polk RTiA9 as I like my music to be tight and Puchy (not boomy). Any suggestions?

I need your opinion and assistance in choosing an amp and TT. Should I go in for a power or integrated? My budget for the amp is 3000. I was considering the Marantz PM-14S1 and the NAD M22. For the TT my budget is 1500 and I was considering the Marantz TT-15S1 or the Rega Planar RP3.

I live in India and the prices here are at a 15 to 20% Premium at least and it’s very difficult to get high end audio. It’s also almost impossible to do trials at home before I can buy and therefore I was hoping if you could narrow down the options for me and then maybe I could then try and give them a listen at a dealers place.


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Showing 2 responses by paraneer

paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
This is an easy choice..

If you buy just a power amp, your still stuck using the Marantz pre/pro as your preamp and even in so called "pure direct" mode, the preamp in HT equipment is just a mere afterthought. 

So go for the integrated instead.   The stereo preamp section in PM14S1 is far superior than the one in your Marantz pre/pro.  With its true 4 ohm rating it will drive most speakers out there and with its "Power Amp Direct" feature, it allows for  seamless integration into your current HT system.   And since your going to add a TT, its phono stage is excellent too.

BTW, I think the Marantz TT-15S1 with its Clearaudio Virtuso Ebony cartridge is a fine choice.  It would be hard to find a better combo at this price. 
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Seriously, how can anyone recommend a pair of speakers for usd 3000-3500?  There a literally dozens to choose from and they all sound different.  What sounds best to one person may sound terrible to you.  This is the one component that you must hear for yourself.

Giving guidance on electronics is easy compared to speakers.  You asked a clear question in the title of your thread - should I get an integrated amp or a power amp to be added to my HT system.  You have gotten good guidance but have now sidetracked into asking about speakers. 

And while I agree that speakers should be chosen first and then an amp that will properly drive those speakers, you will find asking for recommendations for speakers are often meaningless.  We don't know what kind of sound you like or even what brands are available in India.  So suggest you go out and audition a few, tell us what you heard and then we can go back to the electronics discussion and let you know if the integrated or power amps you are considering are up to the task.
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