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

I recently purchased Audio Note AN-E/LX speakers for my small, dedicated music room to replace Harbeth P3ESR speakers. I currently have an NAD C658 and C298 pre/power amp. They aren't the ideal for these speakers - lacking in dynamics, warmth, detail, and full presentation. I'm looking for a replacement pre-amp, amp, and DAC (to be paired with Bluesound Node 2i). 

I'm seeking recommendations for all three that have great synergy together, can pull out the best in these speakers given my music profile and sound preferences, and are within my budget.

A couple of guiding considerations: 1) I'm drawn to low powered class A or tube amplification (though I have limited experience with tubes to date), 2) leaning away from an integrated amp at this time (easier upgrade path and experimentation), 3) limited time now to audition gear at local dealers, 4) preference to buy used.

Budget: ~$6k total

Music Preferences: Jazz, Blues, Rock, Early Electronica, Alternative Hip Hop

Thanks for any suggestions.

regaflush917
ghasley
2,565 posts
 

@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.

 

earthbound
295 posts
 

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. 

marco1's avatar
marco1
709 posts
 

@ghasley 

“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. “  👍

 

waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
971 posts
 

You are getting quite a few recommendations for the Synthesis here. I would think the A40 would be ideal for your situation and stated preferences.

I have its big brother, the A100, which I consider to be a stunning performer, and like the A40, it has a very capable onboard DAC. 

I can tell you that the Synthesis integrated put an end to my years-long audition of a number of highly respected and much more expensive amplifiers, as well as my notion that I would eventually need to move back to separates. It's a piece you can build a system around and love for years to come.

Good luck in your search.

 

alfa100's avatar
alfa100
240 posts
 

Audio Note Cobra 

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