My system shares a lot of similarities with what you're after, check it out in virtual systems. I like my Mac receiver, lots of remote controlled features. I also like the sound of my Bryston DAC. I’m sure whatever you get will sound great. Part of the hobby seems to be hearing a lot of different gear in different systems and deciding what sounds best to you, and of course you have to stay within budget. I also always buy used.
New Rotel Amp Vs Older Bryston, Krell, or McIntosh
Hi!
Brand new to the community here, excited to start the journey haha. I wanted to get some insight on which amp I should purchase. I just bought a Rotel RC-1572 MKII because I love the feature of it being able to automatically turn on when it detects a signal. I use a SONOS Port as my source streaming Tidal, so having that feature and being able to walk in the door and play directly from my phone is valuable to me.
Speakers are B&W CM9 S2's, Audioquest cabling, Furman 15 PFi power conditioner.
Here's the question:
I am looking to pair an amplifier with it. I was debating buying a new Rotel RB-1582 MKii, which seems to be the obvious choice, but was thinking that there might be a better option out there from a higher end brand on the second hand market.
If I'm looking to spend around $2K, I was thinking that there may be a better value with something that has depreciated over 3-7 years but was more expensive new than the Rotel I'm considering. What I was considering was a Krell KAV 2250, Bryston 4B SST, or an older McIntosh. Given these other amps are older, is this something worth looking at or should I just keep it simple and pair it with the Rotel? And are new Amps from a brand like Rotel in the same league as older amps from brands mentioned before due to advancements?
Appreciate your input here.
Best,
Sean