I’ll offer my two cents on the Billie amp. I had the Mark II version for a couple of weeks to try it out. I was very impressed with the build quality, the design and the functionality of the user interface. I can’t comment on the built-in DAC or the Bluetooth as I did not use either of those functions.
The sound quality I thought was very muscular with a clean mid range and good high-end extension. The bass was strong, but clean and very well-controlled. Overall, I was very impressed. However it wasn’t a good match with my high-efficiency speakers. I imagine that it would be a very good match for speakers that require a lot of drive such as panel speakers or those which with large heavy drivers that need a lot of control.
The manufacturer took the return with no hassles and they were very easy to work with. I believe there’s a 30 or 60 day return. So it might be worth a shot.
Integrated Amps
I'm debating whether to upgrade my Marantz integrated with a better performing and higher powered integrated or simply add a separate amp and use the Marantz as a pre-amp. I've looked at stepping up to the Marantz model 30 or 40n, PS Audio Stellar Strata, Music Fidelity M5si/M6si. But then the Heaven 11 Billie caught my eye.
Has anyone had any experience with the Heaven 11 Billie integrated amp? It's a hybrid class D amp w/ a tubed pre-amp. The reviews I've watched seem to give the unit high marks for sound quality, presentation, sound stage, and because of the tubed pre-amp, an analog warmth to the otherwise "cold" sound of a class D amp.
https://heaven11audio.com/billie2-amp-features-specs/?v=7516fd43adaa