2. amps-preamps
  3. 1100071509

Downsizing-Need Integrated Amp Advice

HI. I am downsizing my speakers (buying Green Mountain Europas) and would also like to downsize my amp/preamp to an integrated setup. I am moving soon and space will be an issue-my amp is pretty big, and I doubt I will need 200 watts to run the Europas. I am currently running a C-J PV10A and MF-2200, and would like an integrated that performs as well or better on all types of music. Tube pre is not required, nor is phono board, but I do like the slightly airy sound of a tube pre-I don't want something too harsh or heavy in the low-end. I have about $1000 to spend, and would like to pick up a used model if possible. On my initial list are the Arcam FMJ-22 or Alpha 10, Musical Fidelity A3.2 or A300, A306, Classe CP-101, Creek 5350SE.

Any opinions on these? Will they give me the same quality sound I am getting right now? I have heard that the answer is "yes" but it seem hard to believe, given that most of these units are probably 30lbs total, while a good amp alone weighs twice that.

Thanks in advance for the advice!
chiho
vadimgal
5 posts
 
Try Simaudio MOON I-5 . Very musical, warm and tubelike sound.
chiho OP
26 posts
 
I am downsizing because I need to save space-moving to a smaller room and can't have a huge stereo rack out.

I have been pretty happy with my system so far, although the preamp hasn't been as impressive as hoped. I have A/B'd it against some cheaper (retail $600) SS designs, and while vocals are a little better and bass a little tighter, it isn't a stunning difference. Maybe I need new tubes.

The amp is different-it is very, very good. Tight, accurate bass, and great midrange.

musicslug
430 posts
 
I'm a tube system owner (Cat pre, Cary monoblocks), but recently I had the new Music Hall Mambo integrated for about a week. It's class A, mosfet, no phono, about $1200 new. I could live with it, and at a fraction the price of my set-up, it was not a huge step down. I'd say the main thing I missed was the 'air' that the tubes give, but it's a very sweet - yet powerful - amp.
seandtaylor99
1,262 posts
 
I own GMA Europas and I run them with a Densen B100 integrated amplifier. The sound is stunning. Densen's US distributor is Audio Outlet (www.audiooutlet.com)

Also check out www.densen.dk.

Build quality, sound quality and customer service are excellent.
gaudio_eek
312 posts
 
Another option is the Prima Luna Prologue One or Prologue Two also available from Upscale Audio. There are many reviews on both.
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