2. amps-preamps
  3. 1093209374

Best $500-$700 amp/preamp or integrated

Opinions please.

I will soon be looking for an amp/preamp combo, or intetgrated amplifier for $500-$700 (new or used). The preamp must have a remote that controls volume and source. The solid state amp should have about 70-150 watts/channel. The amp will be driving relatively easy-to-drive 8 ohm speakers. If I go with an integrated design I would like it to have pre-outs for later expansion.

I prefer a somewhat warmer sound, but a transistor amp, not tubes. I may consider a tube preamp. The Bryston B-60r has sounded a little harsh to me when I have listened. I very much liked my Magnum-Dynalab MD-308 that I regretfully must sell. It has a high current design that makes a huge difference in the music. For music I like, see my post here:

forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1093182447&read&3&4&

Has anyone heard the Parasound P/HP-850 preamp --- HCA-750A power amp combination?
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s7horton
1,077 posts
 
Mcfavre4, I believe the model number from Rotel is the RA-1062. The now famous cd player is the RCD-1072. Or, do I have it confused?
key_metric OP
76 posts
 
Tripper and/or Mcfavre4:
How does the Roksan Kandy compare to the Roksan Caspian?
mcfavre4
85 posts
 
Thank you for the correction, you are right it's the 1062, sorry. I am expecting a 1072 cd player tomorrow to play with as my potential replacement player. My confusion.

I haven't heard the Roksan Kandy but the British hi fi mags just did a test with several decent integrateds including the Kandy and the Rotel 1062 won hands down. This was when tested amongst several listeners. I'd try to give it a shot. I bought the Rotel RA01 for my Dad to replace his Denon 3302. It is superb.
cdc2
122 posts
 
I have a Jolida 1501A hybrid integrated which sounds amazing. I bought it new through Galen at gcaudio.com for a good price, I think it was around $600 or less. He may have even offered a two week "demo".

Definetly worth an audition.
restock
831 posts
 
I would recommend to take a look at the Jolida 302B all tube amp (I know you wanted solid state, just could not resist). My first tube integrated and I am very impressed. Extremly quiet, not quite a solid state bass but more dynamic and better timeing than my Linns. Looks like I have to sell $2600 worth of Linn solid state equipment now. The 50 W on the Jolida tube amp feel like more power than the 85 W from the Linn LK85.
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