2. amps-preamps
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Integrated Amp - Narrowing Down to 2

Keeping the story short.  Reset up the analog system and three zones about 5 years back.  Have Two Marantz AV units doing the work (not exactly my choice).  Time to upgrade.

Looking to stay in the 4k range (have other stuff to add yet and should be another upgrade in 4-5 years).  Am looking for an integrated amp to power the Monitor Silver 300's i have.  Will basically run Phono & CD  - maybe in future streaming, but not likely.  I do use phones a lot, current have Audeze MM-500's

Will add a new 3 zone AV (as olders are only two zone) for TV, Kitchen and outdoors but will likely use towers for TV as well so integrated should have pass though capabilities. 

Somewhat narrowed down to Hegel 190V and Parasound Hint 6....leaning one way or the other given the random time of day.

Thoughts would be welcomed on these or other alternative.

Thanks!

kinglek
oldaudiophile
307 posts
 

@kinglek the last time I upgraded my amplification source, a couple of knowledgeable audiophile friends told me that I'd have to spend, at least, 8 to 10K to obtain significantly superior sound quality over today's more reasonably priced integrated amplifiers.  I think they were/are right.  Here are 3 integrated amps that I've spent serious seat-time with that I would encourage you to audition with your MA Silver, which I have also spent some serious seat-time with (those are sweet speakers):  Simaudio Moon Neo 340 IX + Musical Fidelity M6si + McIntosh MA5300.

Good Luck!

beatlebum
184 posts
 

Simaudio Moon 340i 

kinglek OP
4 posts
 

I had looked at the MF M6si....will look  bit into the MA5300 and the Moon.

I have no intention on going into 5 figures at this time as there are other things to upgrade first and feel this will be significant enough for the immediate future.  If i did not have to upgrade the AV amp i might spend a bit more. Really not happy with the SR5015 Marantz AV i have (plus it is only two zone), just time to upgrade there to a solid unit.

Thanks for all your help.....probably make a decision in the next week or so, i hope....

mtbiker29's avatar
mtbiker29
170 posts
 

I put off upgrading my MA Silvers for over 2 years after adding the Luxman 509x to my system.  It woke them up like nobody's business, and sent me down the rabbit hole likely forever.  I'd strongly suggest that combo.....509x used is plentiful inventory wise, should be right around your budget if you shop around.  Endgame piece for many.  

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