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Considering Cambridge Audio Amp/CD - Need Advice

Ok, I'm a brand new audiophile, or perhaps I should say I've been a wannabee audiophile for many years.

I just got a used pair of Paradigm 11se Mk II for $150. I know these are a bit older, but next to my previous Infinity RS-5B (which I'll have to sell now - anyone know what they're worth?), these are a huge improvement.

I've done a LOT of research and decided that all I need now are an integrated amp and a cd player. My budget is around $1,000 and from all my research, it seems my best bet is a Cambridge Audio 640A v.2 integrated amp and Cambridge Audio 640C v.2. The 640A is only 75 watts per channel, but supposedly 100 watts for 4 ohms, which is what my Paradigms are. Even though my Paradigms go up to 160 watts, with the size of the room I have, I'll never need anything close to that, so I figure that amp will suffice just fine.

So anyway, does this seem a good use of my money for a good entry level amp/cd player? Can anyone think of a better system for the money? Obviously I'll have to get a good conneting cable and speaker wire too.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Brand new to Audiogon.
soulgoober

Showing 1 response by rar1

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,747 posts
 
I have owned a number of solid state integrated amps and receivers over the years (NAD C320BEE, Musical Fidelity A3.2, Audiosource 200, Marantz 2240, Harmon Kardon 3340) and for the money ($650), I would go with the Outlaw RR2150 receiver. The amplifier side is both detailed and musical sounding. Has a spectacular tuner, as well as some features (phono input) that might be of use to you. Here is a review .

As for the CD player, I would go with a Music Hall CD25.2 ($540). Excellent CD only player. Cambridge Adio used to make an Azur 540 DVD player which is excellent as well, if you could find one.

My bedroom system consisting of the Outlaw RR2150, CA 540, and Rega Ara monitors is a real pleasure to listen to. Very non-fatiguing sound. Sounds excellent with just about any type of music. Speaker placement is terrible ... on top of a bookcase about a foot apart and a foot from the rear wall and it is still a very pleasant listen.

Regards, Rich

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