I have experience with both the Unison Research Unico(original) and the Belles Aria. I've used the Unico for 15 trouble free years, and still use it in a second system. I recently switched to the Aria when I found a good deal on a used one. I would consider them co-equals with slightly different presentations. The Aria has a slightly more forward presentation and is a bit livelier than the Unico. Of course, you can roll the tubes in the Unico to achieve a different sound. Obviously, I like them both. The Aria is in your budget new, and both should be within you budget used.
Opinions on these budget integrateds?
Searching to replace a NAD C352 with a new/used integrated that will provide a meaningful sonic upgrade. Looking at options around $2,000 or below, and I don't want it to be a sideways move.
I'm keeping my old Allison One speakers, at least for now, as they work very well with my particular room conditions.
Would love to get opinions on the options below. I'm looking for ease and musicality, but the ability to articulate dense music is also important. No internal DAC required.
I'm keeping my old Allison One speakers, at least for now, as they work very well with my particular room conditions.
Would love to get opinions on the options below. I'm looking for ease and musicality, but the ability to articulate dense music is also important. No internal DAC required.
-Belles Aria - very intrigued
-Quicksilver Integrated - have never had tubes before but am open to them
-Primaluna Prologue or Dialogue - might be over my budget
-Audio Note OTO SE - one day! but probably cannot power the Allisons
-Sugden a21 SE
-Yamaha A-S2100
-Parasound Halo
-Unison Research Unico Integrated
-Exposure 2010 S2
-Primare i22
Any thoughts at all are welcome, and I haven't heard ANY of these! Thanks in advance.