amp and preamp... i'm getting close


I've been pondering finally moving anyway from my vintage Kenwood receiver to some some hifi (or at least midfi) separates. The amp will be driving a pair of KEF Q35's. Maybe these aren't my long term speakers, but this is what I think I'll live with for now. I've been reading posts here and reading reviews incessantly (it's a sickness). I want to narrow down my lists so that I'm confident in jumping when the right component is available. I'm hoping people could comment on any weaknesses (for my budget range) on the pieces I'm looking at. Or a unit that's not on this list that I should consider. I have a small apartment and want a remote with volume control for the preamp. My budget for them is about $1500, which needs a phono preamp either separate or built in. Oh, in case this helps I'll be using a Kyocera PL-701 Turntable; a Kenwood KT-7550 Tuner; and a modded Lite DAC-AH. I listen to rock (alt, old and new), bluegrass, "alt-country" (Jimmie Dale Gilmore, etc), jazz, female jazz singers (like Betty Carter, Billie Holiday and Blossom Dearie), and some classical. My daughter listens to the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, musical soundtracks, etc.

Amps: Bryston 3B SST; Rotel RB-1070; Forte 3a; Anthem PVA-2; Belles 150A.

Preamps: Audio Mirror PP1; TAD 150; NAD C162; Musical Fidelity A3cr; AES-3; conrad johnson PFR.

I'm a noobie, but from reading and browsing agon I've got an appreciation for all the passionate members. Thanks!
cutterfilm

Showing 6 responses by cutterfilm

I've been avoiding Integrateds just because it becomes too much to think about. But if I were interested in a hybrid integrated... any suggestions?

The ad for the Edge says it has a tuner and phono (sounds like a receiver). But the Edge website doesn't mention those features. Also, haven't found much info about the unit online.
i was interested in the pv10, but I still do want a remote volume control. yeah, i could get off my butt, but I've been doing that with my receivers for 24 years.
Still looking at separates but have found my interest peaked at the Cayin A 50T, the Creek 5350Se, and the Vincent Sv-226 MKII. Vincent looks great at the top end of my budget when I need to add a phono still.

I've narrowed my pre's based on simple preferences down to Audio Mirror PP1; TAD 150; and CJ PFR.

Having trouble targeting my sites on the right amp.
i've made one decision. I just bought a Tube Audio Design TAD-150. I'm excited about the decision. Now... to match up an amplifier.

I'm now considering either the MF A3.2cr and the PS Audio A-100 (and the rotel rb-1050 as a low end option).
I just bought a used MF a3.2 cr amp locally last night. Can't wait to match it up with the TAD-150.