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 14 responses by leemaze

What do you guys like about those amps?

the phono stage?
the volume control?
the timing?
the power?
@helomech can you compare your impressions of those 2 amps, their phono stages and their overall pros and cons?
Hi @kren0006: thanks much! this is cool!

Hi @elliottbnewcomjr.

The amps on my list are examples, and definitely ones I’ve looked at closely, but i’m open to any thoughts on any integrated in this price range. I'm really just interested in a dialogue of impressions about these amps to see if any consistent trends/characteristics emerge about different units.  Also impressions of the included phono stages are of interest, as these seem to vary wildly from amp to amp.  Anything to add?

Thanks!


Thanks @mlsstl and @kren0006!

these are great impressions!

im really not looking to *purchase* something at the moment, but just would love to collect informed opinions of people who’ve listened to/owned Integrated in this price range. Thank you!

anyone else?
@skypunk thanks for that info!

can you share more details on your experiences/impressions with each amp?
@helomech I have the A-S801 (i think in part due to previous recommendations by you). I love it. Is the 1100 a substantially better sound? have you heard the 2100?

@skypunk I demoed 2 Moon units (the bottom and the top) and was VERY impressed. It was a memorably satisfying sound. However the lower end ran out of power pretty quickly driving Magnepan LSRs. Still it’s been on my mind ever since.
Thanks for the thoughtful insight guys!  Love the Primare, Anthem and Yamaha impressions - these are just what I’m looking to gather. 
Regarding Speakers, I have a few:

Wharfedale Diamond 10.7
Rega R5 (With RS tweeter)
Rega RS1
Wharfedale Diamond 220
KEF Q100

they are all pretty flexible IME so far.