Thinking about simplifying to an integrated amp
I've been considering simplifying the system a bit.
Currently I have a PS Audio BHK 250 amp and the BHK preamp, but an integrated is looking like an attractive option.
The speakers are Dynaudio Contour 30i https://dynaudio.com/home-audio/contour-i/contour-30i#product_specifications
I would like a piece that sounds at least as good or better than my current electronics. Power should be around 100 wpc, but I'm not sure if less would do the trick. 2 inputs is plenty as long as one of them is balanced.
Needs to have a remote, naturally.
Also would need a pair of line out jacks for the subs.
Under 10K new.
Sim Audio, Pass, Accuphase are some that come to mind.
Previously I had a Hegel H390 which was very decent, but the PS Audio gear was better, so that company may be out of consideration unless new models have gotten better. I also didn't like paying for the internal DAC that I wasn't using. Also on the no list is Prima Luna. Just ok sound and not reliable as it blew a channel in under 1 year of ownership.
Thanks
Whatever you do, don’t switch to less power. 100 WpC is not sufficient for the majority of true high-end speakers, contrary to common convention. There’s a reason why most of the stratospherically priced speakers are </= 4-ohm nominal loads. Even some relatively high sensitivity speakers can quickly require more power during dynamic peaks.
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Primary due to living space downsizing I went from BHK300s/BHK pre to D’Agostino Progressive integrated and now to hybrid Pathos InPol Heritage MK2 Absolutely no loss in any area - except cost of multiple cables. I’m agnostic about the principle but my experience has been entirely positive. My experience has been that the most important consideration is the same - synergy with speakers. |
Would absolutely take a strong look at Atoll as suggested above:
https://twitteringmachines.com/atoll-electronique-readies-the-new-flagship-evolution-400-series/
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Any Accuphase, and the Yamaha 3200 are both “set it and forget it” end-game amps in my opinion. Both are simple, classically styled, and bulletproof. Sound is said to on the warm side for both, which is my preference. I own an Accuphase, and since that day I have never wasted time obsessing on a replacement. If you’re ever not thrilled with the sound, of any amp, and/or want to experiment, add a Schitt Loki Max EQ. Though certainly not necessary. |
