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Integrated Amps - another thread...

Ok, I am going to start looking for an integrated amp that meets my needs.  Let me tell you a little about me and my system...

I was an early R&D person (not technical; rather, sound) at Cary Audio, in the very beginning.  I have been in the audio world for 35 years.  My current system consists of: MacBook Pro > Schiit Modi 3 > Rega Brio > to modified ADS &L780/2 Speakers.  All my PC, IC, and SC are hand made using the Helix Image model.  I also have a number of mechanical isolation things going on around the entire system.  Fairly good size room; however, I don't play really loud.

BTW, I'm one of the only people that has always believed in the sound of ADS speakers and still do...

My ultimate goal is to relplace the MacBook (the last change), Schiit Modi 3, and the Rega Brio.  The ADS aren't going anywhere.  They fit me!

I thought about separates; but, I think I want to stick with an Integrated Amp.  I don't really want an Integrated with a DAC (if it has one, then so be it).  I would to keep it around 3K, if possible.  No really wanting to get back into tubes nd I'm comfortable trying Class D.

I listen 100% to Tidal and Quboz, via Roon, on my MacBook, to mostly late 50's early 60's Jazz.  I do listen to newer Jazz when I hear a good album.

So, throw out some suggestions, please...


caryking

Showing 2 responses by tomic601

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,164 posts
 
++++ for the Aesthetix Mimas w card based dAC and or phono. iF we are blowing the $3k budget

this amp has stones and a velvet 3D midrange. I have setup 2 systems in past year w that amp - impressive like most things Aesthetix 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,164 posts
 
we displayed the ADS 2030 biamped w Hafler amps…. I understand where your head and heart are at. The marantz is good..certainly worth a listen.

i agree ith your demo / buy ethics.

for tubes used the Rogue, VTL, Quickie , CJ, ARC used are all good. IF you are not listening very loud the EL-34 VTL is a sweetheart of an amp. w ADS engineering a fairly benign crossover load and efficiency, you might also get away w light loading the output transformers…much tube sonics depend on the quality of the outputransformer…

for SS, Ayre, Electrocompaniet , nAIM ( Atom or Star ) would fix your streamer issue also. The 40 wpc Atom is a real mule kicker…I am biased

https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/7100

have fun

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