I have owned the Vincent Audio 226 and currently own the Pathos Model one mkII. Both hybrids, having tube line stage and SS amp stage. Either can be bought new for under a grand.
I don't think you need to look for something that absolutely doesn't have a phono or DAC. Sound quality should be your main concern. Here are a few integrated amps that come to mind around the 1k price point new with wattage and some comments (in no p-articular order):
-Arcam A19 (50wpc, recently discontinued, smooth sound, has phono) -Rega Brio - (50 wpc, new model recently, has phono, well reviewed) -Musical Fidelity M2si (new, haven't seen a review, around 75 wpc) -Yamaha A-S801 (100 wpc, good clear sound, phono and DAC) -NAD C368 (80 wpc, Class D, DAC and Phono -Creek Evo 50A (55 wpc - no DAC/Phono, good reviews)
Those are the ones that pop into my mind right now.
If you don't mind used a Naim Nait5i sounds great (owned one and miss it). Rega Elex R used can be found for around 1k +/-. Wonderful amp. You have some nice recommendations above as well.
I have an Anthem 225 integrated and am very happy with it. Phono is built in - no DAC. Plenty of power and control over any speakers I own/ have tried.
In my second post above I inserted 'new' instead of 'used'. New the Vincent originally retailed for $1500, The Pathos at about $2400. Sorry for the confusion.
What speakers do you intend to drive with purchased integrated? What is size of listening room?
Primaluna. Classic versions, Prologue, Dialogue, roll tubes to fine tune sound. Plus tubes sound great with digital (and of course any other sources). New or used. Simplicity, what is needed - nothing more.
I think Rotel is a great band for the buck company but people say they can be pretty bright with the wrong speakers. I never thought so.
I the used market I can vouch for Primare, Creek (especially the CLASSIC 5350SE),and Belles Aria. I also loved a Prima Luna tube integated I heard in a showroom; but I didn't investigate the speakers it was driving as I was not there to shop that day.
I chose a used Primare I32 class D integrated myself. Very neutral, but frisky. There's one on ebay a bit over your budget, though. You could always make an offer.
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