2. amps-preamps
  3. 1226675479

Integrated + Balanced + Headphone?

Here is my current setup:

Source: Wadia 581i SE
Amplifier: Simaudio i5.3 integrated
Speakers: Merlin VSM-MX

The Simaudio is a fine unit, but it's single-ended only. I now have a balanced source, so I'd like to try an amplifier with balanced input. Since the Wadia also offers its own volume control, it would be a plus if the integrated could also be configured to act just as a power amp so I can try the digital volume control. I'd also like to have a headphone output if possible. I have a separate headphone amp that I am using right now, but I'd like to have everything in one convenient package.

My primary sound considerations are clarity, speed, and low noise. I tend to listen to fairly fast electronic music at low volume, and I like my notes to sound precise. I prefer solid-state over tubes.

So, what options are out there for a solid-state integrated amp that has balanced inputs and a headphone jack, and can be used as a power amp on its own? The only one I've seen that seems to have everything I want is the MBL 7008, but I'd be interested to hear if there are others out there. I'd like to cap my budget at US$7500, but if there are pricier alternatives out there, I'd like to know about them as well. Thanks.
mistercrash

Showing 1 response by mistercrash

mistercrash OP
20 posts
 
Dave,

Thanks for your response.

- As for the digital volume control, you are probably right that any integrated or pre-amp will probably beat the Wadia's volume control, but it's a feature that I haven't gotten the opportunity to use. I guess I was just interested in trying it out to see how they compare.

- I agree that a dedicated headphone amp should outperform the headphone jack of an integrated or pre-amp. I do find it strange that there are very few audiophile-level integrated amps that have headphone jacks when it seems that pretty much all of the mass-market receivers and amplifiers have them. I suppose the presumption is that the audiophiles will just get their own separate headphone amps if they want to listen to their cans.

- It seems like the Continuum is pretty well regarded here. Other integrated amps that seem to be mentioned in that range include the Gamut DI-150, Gryphon Diablo, and Simaudio I-7. Do you have any idea how hot any of those units run?
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