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

@ivickery I think what speakers you were using would be very telling in your journey. Your profile is showing a completely different system. 

For the Music Fidelity owners, since the MF M6Si does not have an internal headphone amp, have any of you used the line level out to a separate headphone amp? I'm wondering if that would work.

 

@tkrtrb125 Current speakers are Revival Audio Atalante 5’s for the past year and a half or so, and before that were Cornwall IV’s.

@michaelalan I am interested to learn about your Billie, and I don't see it at TMR yet. I will message you....

@gano, I have the first dibs on that Bille amp since I asked about it to begin with!!!!! Just kidding. 

I'm curious when the Mk3 will come out and if it will address the minor issues @michaelalan highlighted in his response.