$6k for DAC/Pre/Power Amp for Audio Note ANE/LX

AN gear is a little different animal from most other HiFi gear.  Their integrated amps will beat the pants off most other separates you can buy for comparable prices. Start with a Level One AN integrated amp.  The Oto is wonderful if you can find one in your price range.  The Cobra is not far behind it and has a built in DAC which sounds very good btw. Most with AN speakers will tell you they sound better with AN electronics and wire anyway.  Then if you’re ready to upgrade look at Level 2 and 3 AN components.  I say if because with the Oto you might be happy for quite a while and it will give you some time to upgrade your source components.

One other thing, with those speakers stick with single ended tube amps, which is actually Level 2 for the Oto.  Also the AN silver cables. They’re pricey but worth it in an AN system.

How old are your speakers assuming you purchased preowned?

I have not heard the Synthesis gear but @larryi and @waltersalas use them and I highly respect their ears. With that said, the OTO Phono SE Signature is a pretty safe bet and can be your end game, especially coming from NAD (no offense intended). You may not require a phono stage but you might someday. In addition, the phono version has a single 12au7 tube in the circuit along with the pair of 12ax7’s and quad of el84’s. Can be tube rolled to suit your taste although it sounds lovely with cruddy stock tubes, so there’s that. It is also optimized for a 6ohm load (matching your speakers) and the transformers in the SE Signature are exceptional. Just a lovely amplifier.

A word of caution, buying preowned Audio Note requires the buyer to research the given item so that you can ensure you get the latest version as Audio Note doesn’t change model numbers, they just incorporate running changes.

You CAN get an Audio Note OTO Phono SE Signature preowned AND a Bluesound Node Icon for your stated budget. That would be a crazy good combo. The upgrade path from there would be (in order) Audio Note biwire LX speaker cables, Audio Note LX or ISIS interconnects and then an upgrade to the Node ICON streamer/dac. This would be crazy good…

I also LOVE the Leben CS300xs and it responds a little better to tube rolling. A word of caution though, the Switchcraft input jacks require great care as they are a terrific sounding albeit mildy delicate jack. Use Switchcraft termintated interconnects….

@ghasley - what’s your thought about the AN Soro? It’s on the upper range. I’ve also looked at the Leben, but I haven’t been able to listen to one. 

@marco1 - why SE vs push-pull?

All - I’m appreciating the input here. 

AI Overview

The Audio Note Soro and OTO are integrated amplifiers that differ primarily in their output stage and sound characteristics; the Soro typically uses 6L6 tubes for a dynamic sound, while the OTO uses EL84 tubes for a richer, denser sound. The Soro is available in single-ended (Level 2) or push-pull (Level 1) configurations, while the OTO is a push-pull EL84 amplifier with a strong reputation for providing exceptional value at its price point. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for sound signature and the pairing with your loudspeakers.  

Audio Note Soro

• Tube Output: The Soro typically uses 6L6 output tubes. 
• Sound Characteristics: Known for a very dynamic sound. 
• Design Options: Offered in both push-pull (Level 1) and single-ended (Level 2) designs, with the single-ended version featuring a more direct signal path. 

Audio Note OTO

• Tube Output: The OTO uses EL84 output tubes. 
• Sound Characteristics: Generally described as having a dense, rich sound, a contrast to the Soro’s dynamic signature. 
• Reputation: The OTO is considered a highly popular and high-value integrated amplifier within the Audio Note range. 

Key Differences

• Output Tubes: Soro uses 6L6s, while the OTO uses EL84s. 
• Sound Profile: The Soro leans towards dynamism, whereas the OTO provides a richer, denser sound. 
• Configuration: The Soro has more configuration options (single-ended or push-pull), while the OTO is primarily known as a push-pull design. 

Making a Choice

• Listen First: As with any high-fidelity component, the best approach is to listen to both amplifiers with your own speakers to determine which sound signature you prefer. 
• Speaker Compatibility: The choice can also depend on the loudspeakers you plan to use. 
• Consider Your Priorities: Do you prioritize a dynamic, punchy sound (Soro) or a richer, denser presentation (OTO)? Your preference for these characteristics will guide your decision. 

“why SE vs push-pull?”  They typically sound better imo. Truer to the tone of the music.