New integrated amp


Hello and good day. I’m trying to decide on one of 3 integrated amps.
1- CODA CSiB V2
2- Plinius Hiato
3- Belles Virtuoso (this one seems to be a long shot, as I’ve been waiting, and watching for its release for 2 1/2 years).
My question is this, why one over the other, what are the strengths and weaknesses of each brand?
I appreciate any feedback.
Jeff
128x128jtweed

Showing 1 response by timlub

Jeff,  I have owned a few Coda products over the years and have sat in front of many more.  The CSIB is a very fine product.  I now own a Belles Aria and it is an Excellent product and maybe the best at its price point,  but it is still not quite as good as a Current Coda CSIB....  The Coda is a hint faster, more grunt and is even the slightest bit more refined.  I say current, Doug constantly updates his products and I would take the Belles Aria over a 10+ year old CSI go instance.  I do not have any Plinius experience, so I would just be blowing smoke to comment. I do know that Johnny Rutan will give you a fair shake on opinions,  he is a salesman and will want to sell his product, but he won't lie to you to make a sale. 

@erik_squires.... erik, you are knowledgeable,  you typically give trustworthy advice,  but you do yourself a disservice when you make statements that could lead people to believe that the current Coda sounds like the stuff that you listened to 30 years ago.  I hope that you get a chance to sit in front of some of their new gear, both pre's are great as well as the rest of the lineup.  
Jeff,  I hope this helps,  Tim