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Possibile new Integreated recomendation

Been thinking of a final change (or should I change?) to go with my ARC CD 3 and Apogee Slant 6 speakers. I want to stay integrated (current is Classe CAP 151). I have been looking at Jeff Rowland Concentra (w/o phono) but was wondering if there was suggestions as to other possibile "magical" match? It has to be SS, and my musical interestes are; soft rock, jazz, blues and new age. Can't spend too much, I've got a limit of around maybe $2500 (give or take). opinions are welcome.
rsjm80
timrhu
2,778 posts
 
I went from the CAP-151 to a Bel Canto eVo2i two years ago. It was a big improvement IMO. Got me off the upgrade path.
foster_9
1,610 posts
 
I'm an audiophile that has been almost exclusively into integrateds over the years. I'd recommend Plinius; you always get quality with Plinius. There's an 8150 for sale; I used to have the 9200. Also if you're looking for a very smooth and laid back sound, the NAD M3 is that and is a great looking integrated too. Whatever you buy, I suggest you get a popular brand at a good price so if it doesn't match well with your speakers you can re-sell and recoup all or most of your original investment. Good luck
hifisoundguy
630 posts
 
Save up some more money and get one of the best solid state amp on the market today....Luxman L550 mk2 $4500 $$$$$$ Go look at the reviews!
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,262 posts
 
the Concentra is nice but a little thick and lacking air the few times I heard it, YMMV though it holds its own against the competition I am sure

Plinius is a nice alternative choice
johnnyb53
3,490 posts
 
I'm getting hooked on the smoothness, speed, low noise floor, current delivery, transparency, and dynamics of a well-executed class D amp. At your price point, I'd sure give a listen to a PS Audio GCC-250. Originally $3500, they've evidently been discontinued and are now available right in your price range. Example here.

If there are no dealers in your area, you could mail order from a vendor with a generous trial period. All you're out is the return shipping if it's not your cup of tea.

The Musical Fidelities are pretty nice as well. The A5.5 lists at $3K, has 250wpc and even includes a MM phono stage.

Here's another approach: The Musical Fidelity Supercharger 550K monoblocks are down to $2500/pair (from $5K--e.g., Audio Advisor). They're 550 wpc. What if you put that with a nice low powered integrated or line stage. The 550Ks have a small footprint (about 8x8) and could sit fairly unubtrusively right next to your speakers, so they'd still have the effect of simplifying your wiring and rack space while still giving you a whopping amount of power.
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