Integrated amps, need some help

The Cambridge Audio integrated to get used is the A3i. It was designed top to bottom by Michael Creek. Much better than the A500 and better parts (High current R-Core transformer, Sanken transitors, MosFet devices). Has a MM phono stage also. Was a HiFiChoice Best Buy for years. See the reviews at audioreview.com. The A3i is the only way to get a recent Creek for under $300. It is a very conservative 50 watts at 8 ohms (70 watts at 6 ohms). One was tested out at over 70 watts/8 ohms at the rated distortion.

The NADs are also very nice, and are a good choice (C340, C350). I have owned both (prefer the A3i). You could also consider the Rotel RA-970, RA-971, or RA-972. It all comes down to personal taste.

Do you live in New England/Massachusetts? Spearit Sound sells NAD, Rotel, Cambridge and Creek. One stop comparison. See info at www.spearitsound.com (was Northampton Audio). They are also nice folks there.

They also have on close out brand new AMC tube integrateds (with phono) for $499 ($1000 list). Or you can break the bank and get one of the Krell, Classe or Conrad Johnson integrateds they sell (Ha!).

I assume you're talking about Richard Moulding at Spearit. I've known Dick for 25 years, since I was in high school (that will make him feel old). He has always had very sensitive hearing, so don't take it personally. I hung out there so much in college, he once offered me a part-time job. (The place was called "Sound & Music" back then.) I kind of now wish I had accepted; would have been fun. I now live 400 miles away, but still do business with him on occassion. I still drop in when I am back home visiting. He is very honest and fair. Jack Tozzi and the others are very good also.

I came back to say there is a Cambridge A3i on eBay right now. Ends on 3/24 in the afternoon. The link is:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1340115953