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I have to downsize big time, any ideas on integrated amps and smaller 3 way speakers

I have to downsize my system quite dramatically. My current system is Well-Tempered Versalex TT with Dynavector DV XX-2 MKII cart, Oppo BDP-105D, Auralic Vega G2 Streamer/Dac, Esoteric C-03 Pre, Sanders Magtech amp with up-graded caps and Monitor Audio PL300 Mk 1 Speakers.
I have been thinking I need to downgrade the TT although I love the sound and I will probably go to an Integrated. Been looking at the Accuphase E-270 or 370. Speakers I like are the Sonus Faber Sonetto V or something similar. I need to be careful with those pesky back waves of Kenjit fame but otherwise I am open to ideas. This will be my last investment in gear as I have cancer and only a couple of years left. I will also need to simplify things for my wife.
Just some rough ideas that have worked for some of you would be appreciated. I have no real affinity with any brand although I am very partial to my Auralic DAC.
Thanks in advance folks.
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shamus2211 OP
47 posts
 
Hi everyone, thanks once again. I am still working through the list. A dealer I know from another city to mine has offered a 45% discount off a Bryston B153 Integrated, ex shop demo. Thoughts on this please before I drive 6 hours on a wild goose chase. Speakers that may match, is it fussy about speakers? Cheers
bthartman
32 posts
 
Very sorry to hear about your cancer, and hope you can prove your doctors wrong.

I'm going to suggest something else to consider, though whether you want to go this route is, of course, a personal choice.  But it certainly offers a much more simplified setup.

I haven't done a thorough audition, but I was impressed after listening for a bit to the new Bowers and Wilkins Formation Duo active speakers at my local dealer's showroom.  They go surprisingly low for a two way monitor (frequency response is listed as 25Hz-33kHz) and sounded very nice when I heard them.  If you add the Formation Audio hub the only other thing you would need would be a phono preamp.  

This isn't something I would move to from my current setup, but I have recommended that others I know that prefer a simpler setup take a look at it.  If you'd prefer to stick with a conventional integrated amp and passive speakers others on here have offered very good suggestions.
kren0006
1,859 posts
 
F cancer!  Both my parents survived it and are in remission. Attitude and positivity is everything!!  My best to you!

Regarding integrateds, sorry if I missed budget but in the $2k range, I auditioned Rega Elex R and Bel Canto C5i on Maggie LRS (the new budget model), and overall I preferred the Rega. 
Bel Canto had better clarity but I was more drawn in emotionally by the Rega, which had a fullness and grit and depth that I appreciated more. 
Good luck and keep fighting 
2channel8
753 posts
 

@Shamus2211,


So sorry to hear about your dilemma. May I suggest that you enjoy your system as long as you can and do not underestimate your family's ability to handle the rest at a later time, perhaps with some astute advice from you. We never know what gifts may be most treasured after we move ahead. Some of my parents 1940 and 1950s vinyl is still among my fondest memories, especially Harry Belafonte. (also, although I'll never admit it in public Alan Sherman and Mitch Miller. Don't tell)

georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
shamus2211 OP
  Hi everyone, thanks once again. I am still working through the list. A dealer I know from another city to mine has offered a 45% discount off a Bryston B153 Integrated
If you add all the extras to that your close to this beauty the Mark Levinson Integrated that has all the extras in it, and would "probably" sound better.
  https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/mark-levinson-integrated-powerhouse-with-all-the-bling

Cheers George
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