2. amps-preamps
  3. 191205-178933

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 2 responses by vthokie83

vthokie83
1,016 posts
 

bipod72

It really depends on the price you want to spend (I didn't see any listed in the thread), but the Heaven11 Billie Mk2 is an excellent integrated for it's $2,000 price point. I helped a friend of mine on a budget set up a system, and used the Billie amp for him. He is running Buchardt Audio S400 MKII or Monitor 100 Silver speakers, and it really is excellent.....very musical, good soundstage, and nice punch. I've heard his set up 7 or 8 different times since then, and I still find it a really musical amp. It runs slightly warm of neutral, but fun and really enjoyable.

The Billie amp is less than $2,000 with free shipping, has a tube preamp, good power, 30 day return policy, and quite a few good reviews (Steve Huff, British Audiophile, Nemo, Steve Guttenberg).

vthokie83
1,016 posts
 

I also must agree that Hegel integrated amplifiers are excellent, but from the H190 and up. I've not particularly liked the H120 (which is more expensive than the Billie amp), but the H190 (now H190V) is excellent and offers a ton of value....but at $4,200. The H390/H400 are better still (and a friend just upgraded to the H400  which is really really sweet), but again at $6,500......where are we in the budget?

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