2. amps-preamps
  3. 167104-16768

SS Budget "Tone" Integrated Amplifiers

In your experience, what are some good, inexpensive solid state integrated amps that give good tone / density? Is there such a thing? I'm done with tubes (for now) and spending $$$ chasing unicorns instead of listening to music. But I like instruments to sound like they should and not have poor recordings (which IMO are most) ruthlessly revealed. I can think of Sugden but it's all but Covid unobtainium right now. What else?
greg7
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,608 posts
 

i found the belles aria very nice sounding overall but it could be a little bright/overly energetic in the treble... so if the op wants to be spared poor recordings being ruthlessly revealed, he might approach this recommendation with a little caution... my 2 c

mesch
3,394 posts
 

Yes, maybe why the Aria mates well with the Vandersteen 1 & 2 Cs.  

joekapahulu
240 posts
 

Marantz pm 8005 now 8006 is a very good sounding amp for $1000-1100  new, built in Japan Reference factory with 3 year warranty, good current, runs multiple speakers. I have enjoyed one for 5 years.  For $2200, Belles Aria is excellent, neutral, clear, well made in US with 5 year warranty. On my list as a step up. Listened last 3 days to new Rogue Sphinx v3 at friend's and impressed for $1800 New. Big improvement  from v1 which I thought was  bright sounding.

More to discover