2. amps-preamps
  3. 1040838786

budget amplification - what to get?

Hello everyone. "Audiophillia" is a new affliction for me, but a very serious one. I am however operating on a very restricted budget (PhD student). I have just got a pair of KEF Q1 speakers, I have a good set of cables (MTerminator5), I use a Panasonic DVD player (I know, it will have to go soon...) and I need to take care of the amplification. I need to stay low on cost - I have considered the NAD 320BEE integrated, the JoLida JD1701 hybrid, maybe the Rotel RA02 integrated. I would be grateful if someone could offer me some advice in the matter, as to which of these or others is better. I am listening to all kinds of music, from Pachelbel to Rammstein, from Vivaldi to Massive Attack, via Dave Brubeck and Diana Krall. Please give me some input, ideas, tips from your own systems. Thank you. Happy Holidays to everyone.
roc_doc

Showing 3 responses by kotta

kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
Hi Roc doc. The int. amps you mentioned above would all be fine choices to consider. If you're considering Jolida do
consider the 301 and the 102b also. If used doesn't bother you, listed for sale here are the Rotel RA-985 and Arcam Delta 290 int. amps. Lots of choices! I have the Q1 in my small downstair system and it sounds very nice w/Yamaha CDP and TD, and for amplification a Sherwood RV-4050R Receiver.
You might laugh, but, if you're on a tight budget I would say check out Sherwood's Receivers. (Circuit City has two of their models. Buy the more expensive model and give it a try. If you are not satisfied, return.) If you need a recommendation where to buy the NAD try Greg @ www.kiefsav.com a call. I think those loudspeakers will sound good with just about anything. Good listening and Happy Holidays. Bill
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
Hi Roc doc. If the idea of a passive pre-amp interests you,
consider the Creek 4330/R. I personally haven't heard this model but others have spoken quite highly of this int. amp.
A few years back I had the Acurus A-100/RL-11 combination. I would investigate the build quality of the Acurus DIA int. amps. Really do consider the Jolida 301. The size of a shoe box but has a wonderful quality of sound. If the convenience of a remote control and headphone jack are important to you, the NAD 320 BEE for the $$$ would be a best buy, IMO. If these conveniences are not of importance
to you, carefully consider the Jolida 301.
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
Roc Doc. Did you buy your Marantz new/used? If you got a good $ on a new Marantz from an authorized dealer please send me an e-mail where you bought from. Thanks, Bill
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