2. amps-preamps
  3. 189968-183416

Final Decision On An Integrated Amp

I'm finally at the point of selecting an integrated amp to replace the old Prima Luna Dialogue One.  I've narrowed the field to the following:

  1. Conrad Johnson CAV-45
  2. Modwright KWH-225i
  3. Octave V40
  4. Raven Osprey
  5. Jadis Orchestra Black

I've read plenty of reviews on them and sifted through posts on Audiogon and elsewhere, both good and bad, and it seems like a decent lot of gear.  They are all within my $5000 to $6000 budget (the Modwright is over my budget, but not by much).  And nearly all have a home trial period, though I can't do it for them all since return shipping and credit card fees will eat up my budget.  Each has things I like and want, but none have everything I desire.  None are perfect.

What I'm trying to find out is if there is some unwritten cautionary story about any one of them.  I'd hate to find out too late that one is prone to burning out this part, something else prematurely fails, there is a problem getting service, etc.  Does anyone have a negative experience with these or something that went seriously wrong?

Thanks,

John Cotner

New Ulm, MN 

jrcotner

Showing 3 responses by jrcotner

jrcotner OP
71 posts
 

I had a nice conversation with Kristin at Modwright yesterday.  She offered me a good deal on a new amp and will install a switch to cut off the display if necessary.  Fourteen day home trial and if I return it I pay shipping and the credit card transaction fees.  I'm going to give it a try.

jrcotner OP
71 posts
 

Sonus Faber Sonetto VIII.  According to the manufacturers or dealer reps all of the amps will work fine with the speakers, some likely better than others.  How each will sound is a subjective matter.  I'm more interested in objective problems with the amps.  Noisy volume controls, excessive parts wear, premature breakdowns, problems with getting service, etc. 

jrcotner OP
71 posts
 

Thank you for the input.  I wasn't sure if Jadis had a U.S. service center or not.  That is certainly a strike against it.  I'm leaning toward the Modwright for the reasons you cited.  However, I'm not sure if it will be "tubey" enough for me.  I listened to the Mac when I tried out my speakers and didn't care for it.

I had considered the Rogue but opted out due to a lot of posts which described it as more for rock and roll than detail and nuance.

More to discover