2. amps-preamps
  3. 1223935908

Inexpensive integrated for Usher S-520

I'm putting together a system for a small bedroom that's about 11'x12'. I've owned the Usher S-520 before so I'm pretty familiar with them. What integrated amp under $500 (new or used) should I pair them with? I need a remote control, and I want to stay away from tubes. I'd be interested in trying out one of the class D or tripath based amps, but not sure if they would match well with the inefficient Ushers.

Integrated amps that I've been considering are:
Onkyo A-9555
NAD 325BEE
Cambridge Audio 540a v.2
PopPulse T70i

Any other recommendations for the Ushers?
128x128johsti
vsr123
9 posts
 
Try the Decco, I have heard this with the 520's and it works very nicely.

cheers
johsti's avatar
johsti OP
102 posts
 
I'd love to audition the Decco, but it's out of my price range right now. I picked up a used Panasonic XR55 to use for now. The xr55 just might be all I need since this is a small bedroom system and I have limited speaker placement options that are not ideal. After some initial listening, the Panny makes the S-520 sound a bit bright on some material. I'm sure it can sound much better after some more tweaking. For the money spent, I'm impressed.

Thanks!
everton
6 posts
 
I second the recommendation for the Onkyo A-9555. I've had it for over a year, and am still amazed by its sound. It sounds better than its price would suggest. If I have any criticism, it would be that the highs are a bit rolled off and the bass may not be very tight. However, at its price, I'd pick it any time.
everton
6 posts
 
Just to add that I also have the NAD 720BEE receiver, which has the same amp section as the 320BEE (which, in turn, is the predessor of the 325BEE that you are considering). The Onkyo sounds better. The notes have better definition and texture. I'm not talking about huge differences, but it is like comparing a 3D picture to a 2D picture.
More to discover