2. amps-preamps
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Best Integrated w/ Phono-In under $350

I have decided to get my feet in the world of vinyl. I am trying to get educated and put together a system at the same time. But the amp part of it has me very confused.

I am on a fairly limited budget and really want to find a good starter amp under $350. Aside from needing to have a phono-in I really have no other requirements. New or used is fine.

Some I've looked at are the Marantz PM5003 (seen a few at the top of my budget), the NAD C325BEE (have yet to see one available anywhere), and a few others. But like I said, I am pretty well wrapped around the axle now and would appreciate some guidance from those who are more worldly about these things.

Thanks.
dmw16

Showing 2 responses by mhedges

mhedges
180 posts
 
I would be patient and try to snag a late 80's/early 90's Sony ES integrated. One of the cheaper ones (but still pretty nice, the TA-F606ES) recently sold for under $100 on ebay. These have nice phono sections and good amp sections.

Keep checking around and I am sure something will come up.

You could also try older receivers. Many of the TOTL ones had pretty good phono stages. There are two top-of-the-line Sony GX10ES receivers on ebay right now, but they are a little out of your price range.

I am currently using a Sony GX50ES reciever (a very basic model compared with the GX10ES) while my preamp is out for mods and I am pleasantly surprised at how nice it sounds.

Mark
mhedges
180 posts
 
There is a Sony GX9ES reciever on ebay right now for a very reasonable buy-it-now. I don't think you would be able to do much better for the $$$.

Mark
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