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Integrated Amps: Classe vs. Audio Refinement?

I'm in the process of setting up a simple, two channel A/V system. I'll be using a pair of Definitive BP-2004TLs as speakers. Does anyone have first hand experience with both Classe CAP-80 and Audio Refinement Complete integrated amps?

I don't want the sound to be too laid back; I want it to have some life and dynamics. The amp will be used for these speakers only, and future expandability is not a consideration (I normally listen to Apogee Stages with different electronics).

Also, does the Classe "thump" through the speakers? I read another thread that said the Classe CAV "thumps". I wouldn't put up with that.
jamestakamatsu

Showing 1 response by sugarbrie

sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I know a YBA/Audio Refinement dealer who stopped selling the single transformer version of the Integre (the DT is the dual transformer version) because they could hardly notice any difference between the single Integre and the Complete. The Integre costs almost twice as much, so they figured would be hard to sell to customers.

The single Integre only outperformed the Complete when powering hard to drive speakers. So the power supply in the single Integre must be superior to the Complete.


That said however, there is a used single Integre with the optional MM phono at Alternative Audio in Canada for CA$1250 (US$800.) They will ship to US. You can't get phono with the Complete and the Integre phono stage is very nice. So for the cost of a mint Complete you can get phono and a little better build quality. I am not connected to this dealer. http://www.alternativeaudio.com/useddemo.shtml

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