Best combo - integrated amp/ speakers/$8,000


I need to select an integrated amp and small speakers, to replace my MG 3.6r and SS combo I sold due to new space limitations. I'm thinking of valve gear for the first time in my life. But I'm also considering SS stuff. I do not have time to travel and listen to all the options - there are no good dealers locally.

Here are some of the things I've read about and am considering:

AMPS

VAC Avatar Super

BAT 300x

Music Fidelity Tri Vista 300

Ayre AX7

Naim Nait 5

SPEAKERS

Harbeth HL compact 7

Reference 3A MM De Capo

Dynaudio Special 25

PSB Platinum M2

Spendor S3/5 (or other Spendor?)

Thanks for your thoughts and recommendations.

MMC
msmcelwee

Showing 1 response by ghasley

I have a BAT VK 300XSE and love it. Used it with maggies and recently switched to a pair of Wilson Benesch ARC speakers and continue to utilize my REL Storm III subwoofer. They are tiny speakers, bottom ported and carbon fibre enclosures that eliminate boxiness. I bought them because I like the sound much better than my Maggies (i always seemed to have to end a listening session with female vocals) . They are lightening quick, very accurate and dynamic with the best soundstaging I have heard in my listening room, with the exception of that 1 square millimeter of sweet spot perfection with maggies.