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What integrated amp under a grand is your favorite

I am looking for amps to suggest to my non-audiophile friends who are not going to spend like we do. They want a complete system for under 3 grand, so I am searching for an integrated under a grand category. I am looking for something a little smoother and liquid than NAD or Rotel. Are there such animals out there?
gonglee3

Showing 2 responses by reubent

reubent
6,936 posts
 
OK, let's try that again:

The Arcam is the A85.

The Creek is 5350SE.

TIC
reubent
6,936 posts
 
Well, it depends! I have a smokin' recommendation at under $800, but it's tubes! The Cayin TA-30 from BizzyBee Audio is a really great sounding integrated amp. I've owned at least 15 different integrated amps that retail for $600-$2500 and the Cayin is my favorite.

If you require Solid State, I would recommend buying used and getting a Bryston B-60. It is a very smooth sounding unit and can sometimes be bought for under $1000 used. It comes with a transferable 20 year warranty, so he should be covered for many years.

I've also owned the Arcam Alpha 10 Integrated which I actually preferred over the Bryston because of its good sound and funtionality. They can be purchased used for $600-750. The Alpha 10 was replaced with the Arcam Diva 85, which gets great reviews. Also, the Creek 5053SE gets great reviews and can sometimes be bought used for under $1000.

Enjoy,

TIC
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