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

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.

@marco1 

The AI summary is unsurprisingly incorrect. The OTO (Level One) is a push-pull amplifier utilizing the 6005 power tube. The OTO SE and SE Signature/Silver Signature (Level Two) utilizes the EL84 power tube.

@regaflush917 The SORO is a fine amplifer…6L6 or 5881 power tube, more power than the OTO SE Signature, same chassis and features. I just happen to prefer the EL84 tonally, YMMV. Since you have a small room, either amp will be lovely. I preefer the Leben cs300xs to the base/push-pull OTO due to wider availability of the EL84 tubes in addition to 12ax7’s for the small tube in the Leben. The OTO single ended (SE) versions share the tube compliment of the 300xs.

I like to describe these two amps as the Leben cs300xs as that amazing girl from college that you date and the OTO SE Signature as that amazing woman you marry. One is just plain fun, one is the total package but it should be as retail pricing sortof says it all: Leben at $5k-ish, OTO SE Sig $8k-ish.

I just sold my AN e/lx speakers which was paired with an 8 watt 300b set. For me, not enough power for them. I agree with Larryi. I had a Synthesis push pull and it had all the power I needed and sounded great.