I’ve only read one review on the Mac, and it didn’t sound great either, but was just listi g for the OP. After the gushing review I first read on the Hegel, I went to look for more, as you never know if they could be a fan boy as you suggested. I found quite a few, some English, an Australian one, a few in the US , and they all seemed to say the same thing, when it’s that overwhelming I start to take notice. It sounds like the Dac alone is worthy of the price of admission, and the rest was equally as good. The one thing they did all ding it one, is a look that matched the price, the painted logo and same look they use on their lower priced models didn’t give an image of luxury, but in the end the sound is all that matters. Not as much WAF involved with an amp as there is with speakers.
All-in-one integrated, 10-15K range, class A/B only
For a second system. I want to buy a SS all-in-one integrated. At least 200W in 8ohm.
When I say all-in-one means it has to have DAC built-in (preferable a very nice DAC commensurate to the price point of the system). I would highly prefer a streamer built-in as well.
Am super excited about the new Boulder 866. It seems to be the only one satisfying all the criterion.
Another option could be the Accuphase E-800 with DAC module (but no streaming).
DAG Progression but it crosses 18K without DAC.
Any other options?
I am not interested in anything Class-D. It has to be Class A/B amplifier.
Speakers are TBD as well.
When I say all-in-one means it has to have DAC built-in (preferable a very nice DAC commensurate to the price point of the system). I would highly prefer a streamer built-in as well.
Am super excited about the new Boulder 866. It seems to be the only one satisfying all the criterion.
Another option could be the Accuphase E-800 with DAC module (but no streaming).
DAG Progression but it crosses 18K without DAC.
Any other options?
I am not interested in anything Class-D. It has to be Class A/B amplifier.
Speakers are TBD as well.
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- 140 posts total
Feedback on the new Boulder 866 amp.. Holy Grail ? https://www.whathifi.com/us/reviews/boulder-866-integrated |
Holy grail is strong...and polarizing. I was contacted by someone via private message who recently purchased a 866 and replaced a Gryphon. He or she may or may not post but that is high praise. Once again, there is some great gear out there and so many are upping their game to compete. We end users are the beneficiaries. It will be interesting to see what comes in both the marketplace and the fallout of the Covid-19 related disruptions. The Boulder is pretty special, whether it floats anyone's boat is the fun of this hobby. |
- 140 posts total