Integrated amps, need some help

Rotel makes good stuff that goes in that range too. Please do not apologize re funds. Don't spend any real $$$$ on wire. Look at a few posts on DIY re cable. If you are $$$$ short for a time DIY will get you into GREAT sound for really very modest $$$. This goes for amps and speakers too.

You do not have to spend a lot, you just have to know a little.

Cheers

Sincerely, I remain

I checked out a Cambridge A500 and a NAD C350 and C370. I didn't like the Cambridge at all, very brittle sounding (maybe it wasn't burned in? but I doubt it.) There's an appreciable difference in quality with the NAD to my ears...listen yourself

For around $300 you might find used Arcam alpha, Audiolab, or Cyrus amps. IMHO these are all better than NAD or Cambridge. Granted they will be nearly 10 years old at this price, but they're usually built to last at least 20 years.

Nuthin' wrong with NAD stuff, terrific value. If you'd like a tuning section as well, the NAD7100 Reference receiver (my first pick) or the NAD7250PE would be great choices. The 7100 would likely sell for around $250, the 7250PE around $175. If you don't need a tuner section, why not pick up the original classic in quality audio, a NAD3020 integrated for around $150? You may want to keep an eye open on Ebay and Audiogon as this gear does pop up frequently.

p.s. if you're looking for speakers to mate with his gear, look into B&W DM302 ($150 used) or B&W DM303 ($200 used)