Impressions: $1k-$2k integrated amps


Hi there!

Id like to start a thread to collect impressions from about about integrated amps in the $1k - $2k range (new or used). 
How would you describe the character of the sound? How did it “pair” with other items in your rig? Most important, how did it compare with other amps in this category/on this list. 

This is not exhaustive but here’s a starting point:

Belles Aria

Yamaha a-s1100

Yanaha a-s2100 (used)

AVA SET 120 Control 

Anthem i225

Primare i21

Primare i22

Moon by Sim Audio 240i (used)

Rega Elex-R

Marantz PM8006


leemaze

Showing 3 responses by arro222

About Primare: Primare prides itself on a straight forward presentation meaning clarity and associated flat audio spectrum.
I found the I22 a bit better than the I21. The I30 series better than both because it produced this clarity with better bass..
You would need to like a crispier presentation. The I21 lacked harmonic weight in my mind which is associated to a degree of distortion. I liked the old time "Onix" amps which were made in England back in the late 90’s better than the both the I20 series amps because it delivered that same clarity with more heft. The Onix amps were really good at delivering that "made in England" sound that leaned more toward warmth (gosh I hate that phrase) with clarity.

Primare products deliver basically what’s at the source. The nuances that pertain to everyone else’s tastes is a balancing act for an amp maker. It takes money to start to achieve more of what the "masses" desire.
The complexity of "seasoning" an audio product to "just right" standards that includes parts that produce a "richer" sound, I do not believe can be found at your price point.
If you were leaning toward a Primare product, I feel it worth your while to wait for an I30 series to pop up.

For my tastes, which run toward a flatter audio spectrum without being sterile, their new I35 (class D) culminates everything they ever put into their amps. It is beyond your present price point but it is probably the amp where I wouldn't need anything else.
With the exception of the KEF, and the Diamond 220's, I’ve listened to all of the above with Primare.
The speaker I thought went best with the Primares is not on your list.
Both the original Studio 100’s and the Response D2 by Proac brought forth more of the Primare capabilities in my mind.
There is also the rumor that Stewart Tyler of Proac may have voiced a line of Proacs with Primare stuff.
Original Studio 100’s can be had in the $1200 range. The new Studio 100’s are not the same speaker.
@artisonjosh: Don't know which you had but with the  I 20 series (I21-22) etc. I would have to agree.
The 30 series were better in this regard.

Be careful on the power move up within the same company. Sometimes the beguiling character of a lower watt amp gets lost with the higher powered one.