2. amps-preamps
  3. 1146927421

bullet-proof, great sounding Intrateds - used

I'm looking for the most Interated Amp or receiver that I can get for use in a vacation house that I have. Since I rent the house out, I don't want to invest a lot of $, and need something fairly simple, and rugged, but I need something to prevent withdrawal when I'm at the house and away from home rig. Here's some preferences:

Budget: <$350 (USED)
Remote control
50-80 wpc
cool running as it will be inside a cabinet.
inputs will be cd player (nothing special), tuner, Satelite TV audio

I'll be driving Paradigm 7seII speakers for now, but that may change.

I listen to all kinds of music

Recommendations, please?

thanks in advance.
bdgregory
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
How about this, http://www.harmanaudio.com/search_browse/product_detail.asp?urlMaterialNumber=HK%203480-Z&status= You can spend the rest of the money on recreational drugs, unprotected sex and internet gambling. Oh, and today is the Kentucky Derby, worth an extra tenner. If this does not tickle your fancy, the Rotel RA-972 is a nice piece within your price range that runs cool.
markphd
667 posts
 
I would pretty much concur with Viridian, although I'm not too sure you would have enough money left over for drugs, sex and gambling all together. You would probably have to leave one out.

At your price point, you could get a receiver or integrated from the mass market brand you prefer, even a new one with a warranty. If the drop in quality from your main rig is too much to bear, you could probably get a good deal on a used Arcam, NAD or Rotel. I think the Rotel is a little better built than the NAD. I would maybe lean towards the Rotel brand, but they all sound a little bit different. It's your own taste.
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
So I guess tubes are out :-)
bdgregory OP
1,580 posts
 
thanks guys, I realize at this price level I can't expect much, but was hoping there might be an integrated that stands above the rest - though maybe a little aged.

I have a Sony STR-DA555es receiver I could use, but am wondering if there's a integrated with less feature, better sound. I've had NAD and Rotel gear and prefer Rotel. I also have my eye on Arcam - is it likely an Arcam will best Rotel? How about the Rega Brio or Mira integrated seem to be available used near this price range.

Let me know if any of these stand out, or should be avoided. Any others I should look into?

thanks again . . .
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