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Need Some Help Choosing an Integrated Amp

Hi Folks:

My current system includes an ARC SP-16 and 150.2 amplification. I am considering moving in a different direction--going with a quality integrated amp and a separate, high quality phono stage to be fed by a new analogue rig. Right now I want to focus on replacing the ARC equipment with an integrated. I value build quality, tonal authenticity, good bottom end control and drive, PRat, and a three dimensional soundstage. Tubes are OK but I'm leaning toward solid state. Budget would be around $4k new or used. The amp will drive 97db efficient Daedalus DA-1.1's with an Esoteric X-03se as the source.

I'd like to end up with something that is as good or better than what I am using for electronics right now when running my digital front end. Any help or advice is appreciated. I've seen a few interesting products from Bryston, Ayre, Pass Labs and Sugden.
dodgealum
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Since the SET option was raised, I would also investigate the Almarro 318B which received a strong review in sixmoons, isn't very expensive, has 18 watts, made in Japan by hand, and looks handsome to me. I thought about buying one for a while, but I did not think 18 watts would do it for my speakers, with your speakers it should blow the roof off the house if you felt the need to do that. On the other hand, if the speaker's designer makes a strong (public) recommendation for his speaker (Musical Fidelity), you got to take that into account, for sure.
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum OP
976 posts
 
Thanks everyone--some really interesting things for me to investigate. The Lavardin is intriguing, particularly if they have a remote option. Has anyone heard any of the LSA Audio Group integrateds--formerly DK Design Group? Looks like a very serious piece as well.
clio09
2,978 posts
 
I'm surprised no one mentioned the Red Wine Audio 30.2. I've been looking at them, however I just scored a VAC Avatar SE so unless the VAC doesn't work out the RWAs are on the back burner.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I mentioned it (Red Wine) earlier in the thread. If the SE doesn't work for you let me know.
clio09
2,978 posts
 
Pubul57,

Sorry, I now see you posted it about a week ago. I'm hoping the SE works out because I could use the convenience right now of having the built-in phono stage. I am skeptical that the bass will surpass that produced by my TRL D-225, but I have heard great things about this integrated so I might be pleasantly surprised.

The designer of my speakers voiced them with an Atma-sphere M-30, so I'm hoping the 27 watts triode from the VAC will be enough juice. The speakers are rated 92db efficient, but the designer said that was conservative. If the 27 watts isn't enough I can go with the 60 watt ultralinear option on the VAC. It's been awhile since I have had tubes in the system si we'll see ehat happens.
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