2. amps-preamps
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Dorm Room Amp/Preamp

Hi, I'm a budding audiophile about to go to college and leave behind my Paradigm Reference Studio 60s so I originally bought a used pair of Paradigm Monitor 3s and a NuForce Icon after seeing the glowing review of it in stereophile. The NuForce was too much trouble with the rj45 to speaker wire connector and new power supply so I returned it. I have about $800 left to spend on amp/preamp. Any suggestions on what to buy? I obviously don't need a lot of wattage and something with USB in would be nice. Thanks for your help.
vmain13

Showing 2 responses by br3098

br3098
1,010 posts
 
I recently purchased a Nuforce Icon system for one of my daughters dorm... er, residence hall rooms. The sound was fine - just not enough of it. With the volume knob cranked all the way up it was still not loud enough. Sadly, it got returned.

I am also looking at a Peachtree Decco. Hard to locate used, but if the newer Nova is any indication it should be a killer integrated amp/DAC combo.

If that doen't pan out i will probably look at a used Rega Brio. The girl spins vinyl, so the excellent phono stage is a plus. I just need to pair up a good, inexpensive USB DAC and we are off to the races.
br3098
1,010 posts
 
Tgrisham - yes, vinyl. Both my girls are very much into it. This one (the younger) is an voice (opera) major in college, and many great old performances never made it to digital media.

The Decco looks pretty good, but the phono stage on the Brio is also appealing. What speakersare you using with your Decco?
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