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Budget Office System Integrated for $1000 or less

Hey All, 

Getting a new office in a few weeks which gives me an excellent excuse to build another stereo system ( I had previously put myself on a 6 month moratorium from buying stereo gear but a new office means I MUST get a new stereo right?). I would like something with plenty of power in case I decide to drive my MMG's in the office but may also use some higher efficiency speakers/stand mounts at some point. A sub out or pre outs will be necessary, a remote would be nice. I want something pretty versatile which can handle difficult loads but will also play nice with sensitive speakers. 

Possible speakers that may be used: MMG's, Gallo 3.1's, Nola Brio trio clones, KEF LS50's

I tend to like my sound a little towards the clinical side with excellent detail, sound stage,  and bass grip.I listen to a lot of electronic, jazz, accoustic guitar, & chamber music.  I have been interested in the older Krell S300i, Peachtree Audio Nova 300(a little expensive even used at the moment but with excellent reviews), NuPrime IDA-16(though haven't seen one for around $1000), Wyred4Sound mINT, Wyred4sound sti-1000. 

As you can see I am not afraid of class D and actually appreciate the small footprint some could have. Something small would be great but standard size would work as well. Just want something versatile and reliable. I am not interested in tubes. What about Bryston?? I haven't heard any but must admit I love their warranty as it speaks to the build quality. 

Any and all direction and opinions are much appreciated. Thanks in advance!!



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mapman
15,679 posts
 
If it were me I’d look at Class D amp from Peachtree, Rogue Bel Canto or similar. 100 w/ch or more depending on room size and how loud you need to go and budget. I can recommend the Bel Canto c5i integrated for top notch sound and everything you might need (including phono and pre-outs) in a compact package with some volume limitation given only 60w/ch. You may or may not need a sub depending. I picked up one used here for under $1000 a while back.

I would not go with Magnepan for electronic music though would be a good choice for you otherwise perhaps assuming they can be located well away from walls in your setup.

Good luck.
willemj
1,036 posts
 
Is this for desktop use?
birdfan's avatar
birdfan OP
50 posts
 
@willemj Not necessarily a desktop system.  I may be able to shelf mount smaller speakers or may use floor standers.. I have some Audioengine A2+ for my desktop, but I plan on creating a "sound lab" of sorts with the new system, using music and ambient sounds to help my patients learn to induce a relaxation response (I'm a psychotherapist).. Hence my need of a sub and possibly floor standing speakers. I want the sound to be pretty immersive. 
birdfan's avatar
birdfan OP
50 posts
 
@mapman 

I have heard others say the same thing about Maggies and electronic music, and I must say I think with stereo subs (REL T7's) my little Maggies do and excellent job with electronic. Sure you don't get that gut level punch you get with a dynamic speaker, but they still sound pretty damn good. 
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