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Entry level amp

Hi everyone, I just got myself a pair of B&W floorstanders (683S2) to "improve" the audio quality of my music and movies. I currently have an A/V receiver ( Pioneer Elite VSX45). I am not sure if it is the best piece to drive the speakers. I am thinking about getting an integrated amplifier but unfortunately my receiver  doesn't have any analog or digital outputs. My main source of music is streaming (spottily and tracks via Apply AirPlay), my 4K TV is connected to the receiver via HDMI ARC. I have two options

1) get a better 7-channel receiver with more power, but I am not sure if this will necessarily improve the audio quality beyond what I have now.

2) Ditch the receiver, get an integrated amplifier with digital inputs and then hook up a network player or Bluetooth module to stream music. I have been looking at Cambridge AudioAzure 651/Topaz RS20, Yamaha AS-501 or Marantz PM6005. 

which option would give better overall audio quality. 



While I am after better quality I am not such an audiophile and I would like to keep the budget low if possible hence the budget amps. 

thanks 
speedmaster20d

Showing 1 response by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
You said it best...Ditch the receiver, get an integrated amplifier.

I can't speak to any of those particular amps, but it's important to audition them, possibly at a Best Buy Magnolia.

For a well respected integrated w/ DAC, there is the Peachtree Audio Nova. It's more than your budget, so you'd have to look used.
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