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Which integrated amp for better musicality - Parasound Hint vs Primaluna vs ???

I've been having a blast looking up threads and doing some research but my dilemma is this - I want to get more enjoyment out of my music (don't we all). My Anthem and Oppo setup honestly sound great but I can't help but think that maybe I am missing out. I am thinking of upgrading some of my gear by either adding an integrated amp or separates. I'd love to hear some recommendations. Based on some reading, I am considering: 

1. Parasound Halo Integrated 6
2. Primaluna Dialogue Premium or Premium HP

My current setup is as follows: 

Oppo 105D
Anthem MRX 510 AVR
Ascend Acoustic Sierra RAAL Towers and Horizon Center

Any recommendations or thoughts would be greatly appreciated. 
freesole
auxinput
1,538 posts
 
Thanks for the youtube videos.  I think the Primaluna has more attack, detail and sweetness.   However, closer listening, the Line Magnetic does not have as much attack/detail and it dryer sounding in comparison, but it has a more natural and real resonance to the voices/instruments.  This could all be tube combinations though.  Based only on this and for sound quality purposes only (not for power), I would probably get the Line Magnetic and see about putting in PSVANE preamp and driver tubes.  The 508 is more powerful at 48 watts. 
buellrider97
135 posts
 
I find it interesting that Rogue ALWAYS recommends Mullards . I have a Rogue pre and prefer Telefunkens , Seimens and Amperex over Mullards . Even RCA over Mullard . They recommend Mullard for driver upgrades in their power amps too . I loaned my buddy Telefunkens for his M180’s , WOW ! For power tubes the Mullards and GEC’s Rock ! For this post , the Primaluna would sound the best IMHO. But you’ll be changing tubes for sound and eventually wear . Plus you’re dealing with heat and dust buildup. If you try some DAC’s , you’ll hear an improvement too . I have an Oppo 105 and my Schiit Yiggy is better sounding . But I would jump in full price and get a DAC later . If you get the Primaluna from Upscale negotiate a tube upgrade. Happy Hunting , Mike. 
willgolf
156 posts
 
Please take a look at Raven Audio based out of Texas.  The owner is Dave Thomson.   Give him a call and chat about his lineup.  I own the higher end Integrated and it is awesome.  He has some of the oldest and finest tubes out there.  And they are all showpieces.  
jafant
10,525 posts
 
freesole

Demo the Anthem STR integrated amp. It is excellent.  Happy Listening!
soundermn's avatar
soundermn
243 posts
 
An observation on the Line Magnetics... they seem to deliver a lot of power.  For example the LM=150iA is rated for 100 wpc with 2x KT150 per channel. This is driving the tubes a lot harder than the Primaluna.  It may sound wonderful, even better than the PL.  But, I am thinking it may be harder on tubes, thus requiring more frequent replacement of tubes.  

The PL delivers 96 wpc with 4x KT150 per channel, so it is driving the tubes at a lower level.  Theoretically this would extend tube life.

Just an observation.
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