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Need Some Help Choosing an Integrated Amp

Hi Folks:

My current system includes an ARC SP-16 and 150.2 amplification. I am considering moving in a different direction--going with a quality integrated amp and a separate, high quality phono stage to be fed by a new analogue rig. Right now I want to focus on replacing the ARC equipment with an integrated. I value build quality, tonal authenticity, good bottom end control and drive, PRat, and a three dimensional soundstage. Tubes are OK but I'm leaning toward solid state. Budget would be around $4k new or used. The amp will drive 97db efficient Daedalus DA-1.1's with an Esoteric X-03se as the source.

I'd like to end up with something that is as good or better than what I am using for electronics right now when running my digital front end. Any help or advice is appreciated. I've seen a few interesting products from Bryston, Ayre, Pass Labs and Sugden.
dodgealum

Showing 9 responses by pubul57

pubul57
3,712 posts
 
With your speakers the Almarro would seem to be a real good option; should be on your shortlist IMHO. If you wait till you can spend the $4,000, I would look for a Art Audio Carissa with built-in attenuator.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
A used VAC Avatar is worth considering and it includes a high quality phono stage.

If the quality of the Pass integrated in comparable to their separates, I doubt you could do better in SS. They Ayre is also excellent, but at 60 watts, it might limit your speakers choices.

I think you are in the right ballpark.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I also triple the MA2275, but I'm very biased towards tubes. I don't think you find many folks who have tried the MAC SS and tubes integrated and would say they preferred the the SS. But Pass SS is someting I could live with.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
With those speakers I would look for a very high quality, lowish power, high current Class A integrated. One brand that comes to mind is Sugden from England. I think too much power would be wasted on speakers as sensitive as yours.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Well, another similar low power integrated with great reviews and user comments is the Red Wine 30.2, 30 watts, battery powered, with a high quality stepped attenuator. See the sixmoons reviews and threads on the GON. I have not heard it, but the feedback is pretty impressive and should very quiet being off the grid.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Since the SET option was raised, I would also investigate the Almarro 318B which received a strong review in sixmoons, isn't very expensive, has 18 watts, made in Japan by hand, and looks handsome to me. I thought about buying one for a while, but I did not think 18 watts would do it for my speakers, with your speakers it should blow the roof off the house if you felt the need to do that. On the other hand, if the speaker's designer makes a strong (public) recommendation for his speaker (Musical Fidelity), you got to take that into account, for sure.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I mentioned it (Red Wine) earlier in the thread. If the SE doesn't work for you let me know.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Anthony, I would be suprised if 27 watts does not do it for you. I had the 30 watt Ars Sonum and it drove my 89db Merlins plenty loud. I've not heard the SE, but all VACs that I have heard have been wonderful; hope it works out for you.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Gnpgnp, what is your budget? I assume you would consider new or used.
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