Integrated amp recommendation for Focal 1038


Hello, I left the hobby for a bit and just got back into due to a local listing for some Focal 1038 BE II speakers I couldn't pass up. I purchased the speakers and am now looking for a recommendation for an integrated amplifier. I will be hooking them up to a rebuilt Technics SP 10 mkii TT mounted with a Ortofon quintet black cartridge and a pass labs xono phono. I listen to mainly classic rock vinyl and my room is pretty large, the speakers will be more towards the middle of the room and pretty far from the walls. I do not listen at really loud volume levels. Ideally I would like a Pass Labs XP 20 hooked to a Pass Labs amplifier like an xa30.5 but with just purchasing speakers cannot get that at the moment. Any suggestions in the $2500 - 3500 range? I am drawn to Pass Labs typically for the deep tight bass and good imaging. Currently considering a Pass Labs int-30A, Bryston B135 sst2, maybe a Cary integrated like the SLI 80 or 100? I've never really ventured into tubes before though.

Thanks
chief4425

Showing 1 response by pr

The yamaha as-1000 wasn't good with my speakers focal 907be, smooth but no dynamic enough, i was very bored with the amp...
I changed by an sony ta-4650 amp (same Pass fist watt SIT, but double power), i went from 180 watts to 60 watts, yet listening is the opposite !
The dynamic is unleashed, stamps became embodied, the soundstage has become much more focused !
This amp plays like a yamaha B2 or sony ta-f7 power amp, really better than the AS ranges !
Find a sony ta-8650, or yamaha C2+B2 restored for your 1038, it's really another world !