2. amps-preamps
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low cost integrated amp for newbie

I'd like some advice on a low-cost integrated amp for a starter system. Under $300 would be my preference. Used is fine. I wouldn't call myself an audiophile (yet?) but I appreciate good design & quality sound. So far the only audiophile piece I've got is a NAD 4300 tuner, purchased at the advice of a co-worker who was determined to woo me into the realm of high-quality audio gear.

I was running the tuner through my old Sansui RZ-5000 receiver which is gradually losing its functionality (thus the tuner purchase in the first place). It was limping along until my most recent move. Now it cannot transmit to either left speaker channel, so I'm on a mono system at the moment. The receiver has always been a nuisance to use, even when it worked properly. The design and quality of NAD feels like a breath of fresh air after dealing with such cumbersome equipment. I want more like it.

I listen to lots of talk radio, folk, blues, and electronica. Sometimes from the internet, usually the airwaves. Of course I play CDs too, but maybe only 1/4 of the time. I seldom play anything terribly loud as I have a small house with oak floors. I'd rather have speakers in every room than blast the volume from one spot.

My current speakers are JBL ("JBL82," they say on the inside plate), circa mid-1980s. I have no idea how they compare to anything else quality-wise, I inherited them from a friend. They sound okay. Not amazing, not bad, but okay. Eventually they'll probably go, too.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts, or feel free to point me to existing threads.
ann
kotta's avatar
kotta
638 posts
 
You have a very nice tuner indeed. I'm a little surprised the 4300 is not remote-controllable. (I owned the Nad 1700 pre-amp/tuner a few years back and it had a wonderful and simple to operate remote.) Check out this web-site; www.ccrane.com They have an FM Antenna called the "Reflex" which is a great! I believe it's under $25 (shipped) and comes w/30 money-back guarantee. I own two of them and they are the best in-door antenna I've ever used. If you decide on an new Nad int. amp, may I recommend you check out this dealer. www.kiefsav.com I've dealt w/them for many years and their prices and service has been exceptional. They may even have something used. Hope this helps. Bill
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fishinfool
32 posts
 
Great suggestions above (except for receivers over integrated amps and the reliability of Sony gear), but let me add one comment:

If you buy an integrated amp first, then you must match your future speakers to the specifications of the amp you have already chosen (unless you want to purchase another amplifier). This could severely limit your future speaker choices.

Each speaker presents different loads for your amplifier. The most common speaker problems are low efficiency, low characteristic impedance (<4 ohm), and difficult load characteristics (such as the capacitive load of electrostatic speakers). Some speakers need very high current, high power amplifiers; some requirement amplifiers that can operate into very low impedances without becoming unstable, some require amplifiers that like capacitive loads (such as tube amps), etc. Will your future speakers be a good match for your chosen amplifier? If it's a high efficiency, 8-ohm impedance, and resistive load, then you will probably be ok otherwise, you may need a different amp.

For me, its easier to find a speaker I love and then get the best amp I can afford to drive it, rather than have my speaker choice dictated by my amplifier. Just some food for thought!
cdc
1,412 posts
 
Did someone say receivers????????

www.harmanaudio.com Harman Kardon HK3470 100wpc $188.00 refurb. $18 shipping.

www.accessories4less.com Marantz 4120 60 wpc $250.00 free shipping.

Marantz has a bit better tonality on vocals and violins.

Both have 30 day trial so not much to loose if you want to try one out.
quadophile's avatar
quadophile
417 posts
 
Fishinfool,

I cannot agree more with you on everything you mentioned in your last post. Sane advise!

As for the record the Puccini SE is very comfortable driving a 4 Ohm load as well. No problems there. My friend who has it is driving his ESS floorstander speakers with side with large woofers are 4 Ohms and the sound is excellent (tube like, if I dare say it). I am not sure of the sensitivity but I guess in 90's
chams_uk
158 posts
 
I'll chime in again. Lots of great posts, even Geoff who must "completely disagree" with me. He recommends some fine equipment, which will certainly provide a lot of long term satisfaction.

I guess the ultimate question is what truly is the budget, and the priority.

I have heard the NAD 320BEE, and it bettered some nicer receivers IMO, including a Yamaha and Pioneer. It even edged out a more expensive Rotel integrated to my ears as well.

As for driving speakers, the NAD is stable into lower impedences, no worries. Deepest bass may be lighter than the heavyweights, but muscially, it is a winner overall.

I am an ex-Audio Analogue owner, I bought the Puccini SE a few years ago over 4 other integrateds, ALL of which are more expensive by 1.5 to 3 times the SE's price. I thoroughly agree, that would be a great amp to get. Based on the original post, though, it may be best to keep the recommendations closer to the original budget. Maybe we convinced Ann to spend more, maybe not...

But the NAD's or any of the other recommendations would be a warm welcome into the world of music and "audiophilia."

Best of luck to Ann, and hope there is years of good listening ahead !
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