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Integrateds: Why do they all SUCK?

I’m trying to find a HIGH QUALITY integrated that has:
1. A no-corners-cut real class A - A/B power stage.
2. A real, high quality analog preamp line stage.
3. A good phono stage.

Aside from a few very high end products, the above described integrateds seem not to exist. Why can’t I find a quality integrated? Do we just have to accept having a pile of boxes?
madavid0
pumper24
31 posts
 
 dartzeel is a $25,000 piece
 esoteric is a $10,000 piece
McIntosh 9000 is a $10,000 piece
Thrax Enyo $11,500

Modwright kwi200-$6100 with dac and phono, $5000 without. 234,000 u/f capacitance !!!
200 wpc into 8 ohms, 
400 wpc into 4 ohms
build an entire system for $10k.


john1
38 posts
 
What are you talking about?
Simaudio 700, Mark Levinson585, Ayre AX5 Twenty, Pass Labs int 250 are all regarded as outstanding. Your question doesn't indicate power or price considerations or if tubes are wanted so the likes of Audio research may or may not be of interest.  This is just for starters.
dgw4tube
8 posts
 
Ever consider a MANLEY Stingray? 
dpdatl
5 posts
 
Try TOL vintage Japanese. Lyman, Kenwood Supreme, Sansui, Accuphase, and Pioneer all have the things you desire. They will simply need a complete refurb. A good refurb should run $500 +. Enjoy.
johnnyb53
3,490 posts
 
I’m trying to find a HIGH QUALITY integrated that has:
1. A no-corners-cut real class A - A/B power stage.
2. A real, high quality analog preamp line stage.
3. A good phono stage.

Aside from a few very high end products, the above described integrateds seem not to exist. Why can’t I find a quality integrated? Do we just have to accept having a pile of boxes?
I guess you never heard of the Parasound Halo Integrated. 160/270 wpc into 8 and 4 ohms, respectively. Has well-reviewed DAC and MC/MM phono stage.

Stereophile Class A recommended component. Priced at $2495, it is thousands of dollars less than anything else in that category.


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