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Seeking a "high end" integrated amplifier

All,

I have gone totally 2 channel and am replacing my multichannel EAD PM2K amp and EAD Signature with an integrated stereo amplifier. I'd love to stay under $5000 (used) but could be convinced to go more if there is really good reason. Though not as high as the 4 box ASR!

I listen to all kinds of music from jazz to classical to rock (from Miles to Billie H., from Bach to Stravinsky, from Van Morrison & Steely Dan to female vocals like Anna Nalick) but typically don't play at too loud a volume.

My speakers are the Amati Homage, the CD player is the Electrocompaniet ECD1 UP and I'm currently using a Goldmund integrated now that I've taken the EAD out of the picture. I like the Goldmund quite a bit but I'm using it currently after moving it from my second system and need a new one anyway. I am tempted by, for example, the Rowland Continuum but am completely open to input.

I don't know all that much about integrated amps and have read many of the posts about integrated amps. So I have looked at the lengthy list. What I was looking for help was with as SPECIFIC as possible recommendations given the rest of my equipment and musical taste.

Thanks in advance!
seldon
huntermusic
76 posts
 
There are so many to choose from. You will have to analyze your style of listening and what additional touchpoints you need for your choice.
More power can drive difficult speaker loads. Sometimes you want to be able to crank up the volume and still have a relaxed, open sound. Do you want the Int. amp to be a visual centerpiece in your room? Do you want it to be noticeable? Will you need a remote (I couldn't live without one). Does heat need to be considered (tubes are hot).

For my ears I have heard great sound from the Pass integrated amp and the BAT int. amp. I don't know the sound of the Accuphase or the MBL but I know their other products and would consider those. I owned a Plinius int. amp and it did nothing for me; the sound was clinical, almost dead. I also curently am listening to a KRell EVO 402 amp and loving it but the Krell 400xi int. amp I owned for work was also not musical to my ears.

just my two cents.
argyro
438 posts
 
Gryphon Diablo used.
kiwi_1282001
312 posts
 
04-10-09: Argyro
Gryphon Diablo used.

I'm not sure you could get one for the kind of budget allocated here but if you could it would certainly be a great contender. I recently auditioned the Gryphon and i really liked it. See http://www.audioenz.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=7956

for my experience.
seldon OP
23 posts
 
All,

Thank you so much for this variety of suggestions. Nothing is ever easy, is it? But that is part of the fun here.

BTW, that was SOME review Kiwi! Well done.

The Pass and Luxman recos have me most interested. I'm "nervous" about Class D (despite some strong protestations from the Rowland folk) and have to try and go audition them soon.

I'll end by again thanking you all for your suggestions. I will follow up once I've made a purchase and listened to it some.
seldon OP
23 posts
 
My search is over. I bought an amp that was not recommended on this thread but was in a different thread. (Thanks Frankpiet). I bought a Vitus SS-010 "integrated" (it can also be used as a power amp) and I remain absolutely stunned by it. I have been listening for about 10 days and I have never heard better, more involving, music in my home.
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