Budget hi-fi and vintage audio gear


I’m in the process of putting together a budget hi-fi system and I am curious for any advice fellow Arsians could provide. I would like a system that is purely stereo and produces high SQ rather than high SPL. As it stands now, my computer would be the main audio source (MP3, APE, CD) using my TBSC- however I want to eventually add higher quality separates like a CD player, etc. This system will be used in a bedroom/computer room (small apartment) and I’m pretty set on picking up a pair of Axiom Audio’s M2ti speakers. What I’m looking for is a good quality integrated amplifier (not a receiver, I don’t need radio) that is budget priced (~$250 at most). I’ve done some searching around and it seems vintage equipment could yield the best results for my needs. What sort of vintage equipment would you recommend for my needs? I’ve seen the NAD 3020 or 70’s Marantz equipment come highly recommended  https://waveadvice.com/integrated-amplifiers/ ; does anyone have any experience with this equipment? What are some precautions to take regarding the purchasing of 20+ year old audio equipment? What are common problems old integrated amplifiers run into? Any information and suggestions are highly appreciated! Thanks!
pessen

Showing 1 response by nitewulf

I was in the same boat recently, honestly I just like the look of vintage gear and wanted one for my bedroom system. I took a look at the specs for your speaker. You can get what I got, a serviced/recapped Kenwood KA 5700 Integrated Amplifier.

Stunning audio quality.  Last two days it was powering my bedroom system and sounded great, but I have tiny full range speakers which aren't suitable for all types of music.  So tonight I hooked it up to my main rig, and at least on low volume it sounded stunning. Absolutely wide stereo separation, distortion free crystal clear imaging. The VU meters barely moved...I mean it was very late so I listened at a low volume, but it sounded great. I did test to see if the volume picks up, and it does, my speakers are very efficient so it had no trouble. I just couldn't test it for long because I do have neighbors.

It was around $250 shipped.

For reference, this is the unit I bought:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnUEHxCuzok&feature=youtu.be%3D%22_blank%22