Integrated that blew you away

@lalitk  I keep seeing Accuphase described as “dark” and recently someone said only their class A sound that way. I have no Accuphase dealer here but I’m hoping that’s not true.

@hgeifman  it is! The amp I decide to go with will affect speakers down the line.

@panzrwagn  the 5805 has been high on my list but I have no way to audition. Can you describe the sound and your experience with it?

The new Buchardts E50 connected to my HEGAL 390 is blowing me away. Smooth, wide soundstage, incredible bass, very articulate highs. I have 4 other integrated and hoping my Pass 250 will go to an even higher level. 

Belles Aria Integrated would be my recommendation, but it depends upon what speaker you want to pair with it.

Bob

Hegel H390 or the new H400.  I have the H390 and can attest to it being phenomenal.  However the DAC IMO is just OK.

@gochurchgo 

Accuphase gear—especially their Class A amplifiers—often gets described as “dark” because of its tonal balance: smooth, slightly laid-back treble, rich mids, and a non-aggressive presentation. But “dark” can mean different things depending on the listener’s reference point. Some hear it as relaxed and refined; others might interpret it as lacking air or sparkle.

Accuphase generally avoids the hyper-detailed or ultra-etched sound, which can make them seem darker compared to brands like Gryphon, Hegel, or even Pass.

When you ready to pull trigger on Accuphase gear, PM me for my Accuphase dealer contact info.