I know it is not what you are asking about but is worth a consideration. Audio Research GSi75. I had one for a couple years and it was fantastic, I just needed more power for my Wilson speakers. It is fully loaded with a fantastic phono stage and DAC. It even has a headphone connection.
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
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- 60 posts total
@mikhailark |
My experience was not that it was weak in the bass at reasonable volumes. I have Wilson Sophias and a very large space. I play it very loud at times as it fills my entire home with sound. If I am running around doing chores or around the corner in the kitchen it is very loud at times. A song with really deep bass hits would distort at those volumes with the integrated. When I went back to separates with the REF 75SE I never experienced that. They are both rated at 75watts and have the same tube complement. I believe it is the power supply/transformers used in the REF that helps it avoid that issue. If you had reasonable size space and reasonably efficient speakers and were not playing at concert levels, then I bet you would never have an issue. They don't pop up in the used market that often and seems to be holding their value well at around $6-7k. If it checks all your other boxes, it may be worth giving a shot knowing you could sell it if you were not happy. Good luck! |
Accuphase E-3000. Its classic looks, build quality, and champagne finish are second to none. It sounds pretty good too. Its in your budget and has 150 wpc into 4 ohm speakers. Not sure what your impetus for going integrated is, but mine was being at a point in life where simplicity and aesthetics is same priority (or more dare I say) as sound quality. Some of the aforementioned equipment has very bland DIY styling or over the top extreme styling one might get tired of when the newness excitement fades. |
- 60 posts total