I used 30.2 (not XD) for a few years, with Hegel, Gato, and Circle Labs A200, in that order. I considered each to be a step up.
Integrated Amp Pairing for Harbeth 30.2
I am asking you to suggest compatible solid state integrated amps that works well with the Harbeth 30.2. This is a downsizing exercise and the unit should have a DAC and Phono Stage, both MM and MC.
My budget is anything less than $13,000. A Krell Evo 222 and Krell 302 was my previous setup.
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Most $13K speakers will easily outperform those Harbeths IME, even with an entry-level integrated, so I believe you’d be much better off upgrading the speakers with that budget. There are ≈$13K speakers (and much less with DIY options) that do everything better than a pair of 30.2s, even midrange and vocals. I do however agree with @mbmi that Audio Group Denmark (Aavik, Axxess) make some excellent integrateds in this price range that would likely have good synergy with Harbeths. I have a Forté 1 that I preferred to both the $9K Luxman 507Z and a Bel Canto E1X in a back-to-back comparison. It is a rarity of a SS amp in that its largest distortion harmonic is 2nd order. |
I have Harbeth Super HL 5 Plus and used to power it with the top of the line Hegel integrated and I didn’t like the match. My local shop got me a deal on a lightly used Accuphase E-600 and it suits my needs perfectly. If I was younger it wouldn’t be enough power for me but at almost 60 it’s not lacking anything. There's much better matches with Harbeth than Hegel. Nothing against Hegel. They have their place, but not so much with Harbeth IMO. |
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