Most of the amps mentioned might lack the refinement to get 100% out of your Merlin loudspeakers. The Mastersound 845 Compact is over your budget but might be an amp to consider and even demo. The 845 has a liquidity and sense of ease that most budget amps lack. Another positive is the 845 can survive many speaker upgrades. If you consider a SS amp in your price range the Belles Aria should be on a short list. I picked this amp for my sister’s budget level system. The Aria has that non mechcanical flow/liquidity that few(if any) amps at this price can claim. If there is a weakness with the Aria it’s more of a finesse amp when compared to a Hegel, can’t have it all for $3k. Had a brief listen to the Denon PMA A110, the potential is there.
Getting Back In - But Doing it Sanely
Hi everyone!
I was once an active buyer here, but after a couple of decades of kids, it's time to get back in. This time, however, I'm doing it with a sense of sanity. I could use your help! I'm in the USA.
I kept my Merlin VSM speakers, which are 8ohm 89db sensitivity speakers that were great with tubes. I would like to use them in my new system. I also purchased a Wiim Pro for a source - I'll be using Apple Music or another streaming service. No video / theater system connectivity is planned or wanted!
My listening room is 20’ x 18’ with high 10’ ceilings. I live in a townhome and can't blast the music, but I want to enjoy it at casual listening levels. Music in like is acoustic, folk, singer songwriter, and some top 40.
I need a preamp/amp, preferably integrated. No monoblocks, for sure. Fine with tubes. Fine with digital.
I want to spend less than $4k used. Preferably under $2k!
Can anyone make suggestions?
Thanks!