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Best budget integrated choices

I had a Sugden A21 some years ago but it died an unfortunate death.

I am looking for a budget (defined as as cheap as possible) integrated to power my LS3/5a V2 (a little easier to drive than the original) to not loud levels.

I worked myself into a tizzy of joy reading reviews of the Onkyo A-9010 Integrated Stereo Amplifier to only find out that the UK version is the one voiced (if I can say that) with a nice warm presentation.  I am a tube guy at heart but appreciate a warm SS amp.

What else should I be looking at.  I am a but apprehensive on used SS after mine died.

Thoughts?
portlandlay
2channel8
758 posts
 
I have one of these that I am very happy with. Not warm. Neutral, yet sweet. It takes the edge off a pair of Cantons I’ve heard described as bright. I can listen all day.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rotel-RX-1052-2-Channel-100-Watt-Receiver-/292034234485?hash=item43fe98c875:...

I wouldn’t consider Marantz, Arcam, or Parasound moving up. However, If I found $1500 to $2000 under a rock I’d be down at my dealer’s store comparing a Rogue to Belles Aria so fast it would make your head spin. Then one town over for the Prima Luna. I've never heard a Jolida.
spenrock
24 posts
 
Non fancy, audio only, used integrateds are a great option. The older models have excellent sound and built to last. Try Classe CAP-101, CAP-151, etc; Bryston B-60, Krell KAV-300i, various NAD, Hegel, LFD. Tubes, you could try Primaluna (sorry, don't know tube stuff very well).

If you need a DAC, try Peachtree Nova series, NAD, Rotel?

Good luck 
audionuttz's avatar
audionuttz
3 posts
 
Hey Stephen been abou 12 years now since we last spoke.
 I still have your rosewood Rogers LS3/5a's and AB-1 subs.
 I sold my Sugden A21aL and A21P a few months ago. 
Made for each other "a match made in heaven"
I have taken a slight move in another direction and now use a pair of Tannoy Golds driven with ASL 845 mono's
I have put the Rogers up for sale but no firm offer yet.
cheers,
Ron
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
974 posts
 
I agree with the Peachtree recommendations. Here is a review on the new 150
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/716-peachtree-audio-nova150-review/

They also have a 30 guarantee. Dont like it within 30 days send it back. But I have never tried this. I do have one of there iDacs from days of yore and liked it. And when I called about and issue they answered the phone and offered a solution. I may have to try their new Sona Amp some day.  There older integrateds can be found on ebay for around $600

itsikhefez
63 posts
 
Depending on budget, I had both Creek 4330SE and Creek 5350SE and liked both. I'm using an Exposure 2010S2D now and I love it
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