No frills balanced ss integrated amp?


Interested in what the membership recommends for a great sounding solid state integrated amp strictly for two channel audio.  Something that excels at the basics.  Parasound Halo seems well-regarded but the "no frills" modifier is included to try and avoid exactly such "all in one designs"; i.e., DON'T want something with DAC, phono pre, subwoofer control, tone controls, multi-channel output etc., etc..  Budget in the $2500-$3000 range.  Have a Hegel H200 now.  Don't ask why I'm thinking about another.  Not sure I can explain.  New preferred but would definitely consider used (esp., if still in production).  Thanks for the input.  
128x128ghosthouse

Showing 2 responses by inna

Yeah, I pushed the wrong button when wanted to add something and then got distracted. I was going to say that I talked to them a few times, and they were very nice and understanding. Among other things I asked them about modifications, I was thinking about slightly boosting the gain and making a preamp out output. I have an original 16 years old model that doesn't have it. They said it was possible but would cost. I have abandoned these ideas since but not because of the cost. Redgum integrateds have a passive preamp section.
I suppose, there are many excellent SS integrateds in this price range, including LFD, especially if you get them used, but even new. The Redgum I have is slightly on the warm side but it is not warm sounding, very pleasant sound signature. And I really like dual volume controls, that's very audiophile approach.
Well, I thought I would mention Gryphon Atilla that is available here from Europe. Yeah, European voltage and the price is a little high. Both points can be improved, I guess, if you really want one.