I have owned the ML 383 for about 6 months and I am completly happy! I replaced a Meridian 502 pre and 557 amp. I will second some of what was said in the first few posts: Check out the recent review of the ML 383 at www.sstage.com and also look at Stereophiles review. Here is a quote from an ML employee, "Sonically, it's as close as we could make it to the performance of a No.334 driven by a No.380 preamplifier," he said. "And if you fail to use the best interconnect, a No.383 will be better." (List prices 334=$5900 and 380=$6500)
I don't argue that you could surpass it's performance with some separates, but at what cost? Not to mention, there is always something better.
There are advantages to both integrates and separates. All I can say is that I am very happy with my integrated amp.
It has been mentioned that some integrated amps may not be as weighty in bass, with my speakers this is not a problem. Read what the reviews have to say, they cover this well and make your assessment.
I bought mine used and I haven't talked with the guy I bought them from in awhile, but he reluctantly sold them to fullfill his desire to own a fully active Linn system. That stated, he told me he was very happy with the ML 383 but wanted to try the Linn system. The last e-mail I had from him left me feeling quite good as I know he had well over $20,000 in replacing the ML383 and speakers he sold me and stated he was having second thoughts.
Go to this link to link to reviews: http://www.madrigal.com/MLreview.htm
I notice they have another review I have yet to read.
Sorry I cannot comment on others as I have no experience.
I don't argue that you could surpass it's performance with some separates, but at what cost? Not to mention, there is always something better.
There are advantages to both integrates and separates. All I can say is that I am very happy with my integrated amp.
It has been mentioned that some integrated amps may not be as weighty in bass, with my speakers this is not a problem. Read what the reviews have to say, they cover this well and make your assessment.
I bought mine used and I haven't talked with the guy I bought them from in awhile, but he reluctantly sold them to fullfill his desire to own a fully active Linn system. That stated, he told me he was very happy with the ML 383 but wanted to try the Linn system. The last e-mail I had from him left me feeling quite good as I know he had well over $20,000 in replacing the ML383 and speakers he sold me and stated he was having second thoughts.
Go to this link to link to reviews: http://www.madrigal.com/MLreview.htm
I notice they have another review I have yet to read.
Sorry I cannot comment on others as I have no experience.