2. amps-preamps
  3. 172680-34747

A decent integrated amp under 2K ...

I'm looking for an INTEGRATED AMP. My speakers are Altec 620A (100 db efficiency) and my listening room is 14 x 21. I mainly listen to digital files from my DAC (Metrum) but sometimes I feel less lazy and put on a vinyl on my Garrard. I don't need a phono stage, I use the one from another integrated amplifier (Spendor D40). Here's my shortlist:

1) Belles Aria Integrated (slightly powerful for my needs)

2) Croft phono integrated (since I don't need a phono stage, I think it's a shame to burn tubes for nothing)

3) Rogue Sphinx V3 (too powerful for my needs)

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS: I can live with tubes but only in the PREAMP section and I try to avoid Class A due to the heat. I'm open to Class D (proof: the Rogue) but the choice is limited and these devices come with a bunch of stuff I don't need. I rather spend my $ where it will make a difference.

regards

128x128alaindexe

Showing 1 response by big_greg

big_greg
6,567 posts
 

I really don’t have any experience with the pieces you’ve mentioned that you’re interested in. Vincent makes some nice gear in that price range. They are class A up to the first 10 watts and have tubes in the preamp stage. Mine didn’t run hot. You would have to go pre-owned to get one of their top models. I’m not sure why you’re concerned about something being "too powerful". I have run highly efficient speakers with big amps and most will respond well to the power.

If I were currently looking I would also consider Modwright’s integrated. You’d have to increase your budget a little for a pre-owned one. There’s currently one listed on CL in Seattle for $2500.

 

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