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

 

bipod72

Showing 1 response by helomech

Marantz makes some pretty good integrateds, better than many of the non-japanese designs simply due to Marantz (like Yamaha, Sony, Luxman and Denon) knowing how to design a quiet circuit. I haven’t heard the Billie. It gets good reviews but I’ve seen quite a few of the mkII version on the pre-owned market already—unusual for what I imagine is a low-volume product. 
 

For integrateds, I haven’t encountered any that outperform the Yamaha A-S2200 or A-S2100 for their street price. They combine the good traits of tubes and solid state better than any of the hybrid tube/SS products I’ve used/owned. Usually with the latter, instead of the “best of both worlds,” you instead get the worst of both.