Int amp help

The discussion was about NAD in general, this was on an e-mail list, so there is no Web site to go to where you can view the discussion.

Your post didn't say if you wanted tubes or solid-state, are you open to tubes? I have had a Jolida 302B for about 2 months now, and I couldn't be happier. My dealer replaced the "interstage coupling capacitors" with models from Kimber, and I also got upgraded tubes all around. I recently got a matched quad of Electro-Harmonix EL34's for $40 here on the 'Gon. The last touch was a Music Hall power cord, and I am very happy with the performance of this nice-looking integrated. (I use a Sony 333SACD and am currently driving Triangle Titus monitors. Silver Sonic Q10 biwire, too.) If you get the chance to listen to a Jolida, please do. Your ears will thank you...

Chelillingworth - I have heard the C370, physically. Don't assume I haven't. I should have added that the LFD is only 50 watts. When I listened to it, the amp was driving a pair medium sized three ways to loud levels, so I assume that it will drive a pair of fairly efficient monitors. I agree that the C370 is a good deal, and it is only half the price of the LFD. Tonally, however, the Mistral is superior, and imo, also a bargain. Maybe jakeulate will not find that it fits the bill. Maybe, somehow, it is too little power. And maybe saving $550 is worth quality difference. I am suggesting it, not buying for him.

Chelillingworth - I have heard the C370. Don't assume I haven't. I definately should have added that the LFD is only 50 watts, though. When I listened to it, the amp was driving a pair medium sized three ways to loud levels, so I assume that it will drive a pair of fairly efficient monitors easily enough. The Sudio 20s are not exactly power mongers. I agree that the C370 is a good deal at $550. Tonally, however, the Mistral is superior, and imo, also a bargain. Maybe jakeulate will not find that it fits the bill. Maybe, somehow, it is too little power. In fact, I really doubt he will end up with it. Mine was just a suggestion.

Oh I am not personally attacking anyones suggestions, or making assumptions, my only reference to the LFD was it's realtively low power, it is a fine product. It does look like the comment on hearing the components was a little tangled up, I didn't meaan to direct it towards Ohlala.

My comments about the NAD are only to make the point that this amp doesn't fit in the classic NAD pidgeon hole, dark opaque and underpowered. My comments were directed towards the thread in general as many people have commented on the quality and sound of NAD, good comments with which I agree. I am only stating that this amp is a different can of worms.
There are many very good solid state integrateds for $1000 to $1500. The surprise to me is that the NAD has so much power and is a very neutral and transparent amp. It is not warm like the Audio Refinement and to a lesser extent the LFD. All though they are tonally different,that gets into personal prefence, but in the important areas of resolution and control the 370 is unimpeachable at double it's price. Now the decision is how much to spend, how much power do you want, and tonally what is your cup of tea. All the amps mentioned are very good and none would be a mistake.
Cheers