Looking for a hybrid integrated to do it all!


Hi everyone, I'm sure this request will draw some ire from the "separates only" crowd but here goes! I'm looking to transition my separate preamp/DAC/amp stack to a more minimalist setup fairly soon but have had some trouble turning up possible components. Here are my rough requirements:

  • Needs to be a hybrid tube/SS design as I like the tube sound too much to let go
  • Needs to have a high quality integrated DAC
  • Should be well built and competently designed with good components
  • Has to output a decent amount of current (around 100wpc @ 4 ohms)
  • This is subjective but it needs to be aesthetically pleasing
  • Bonus points if it has a high quality integrated phono stage (not a must since I'm willing to go separate on this)
  • Bonus points if it has a remote
Pretty much the only option I've found so far that checks all the boxes is the Heaven11 Billie. If anyone has any suggestions of other products to look into that are like this, definitely let me know! For what its worth, I will be using this with a pair of Dynaudio Contour 20s and my budget is no more than $2500 (but I would consider used gear as well). Thanks!
primarist

Showing 1 response by bassdude

Here’s a couple of videos which may be helpful... they both have a "tubey" sound... and they aren’t too far above your budget, if you find them used on Audiogon, or USAudiomart, or Ebay.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSwFRY6cWWA&t=0s
What System for <$5000...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzK4U8pPqOY
Hegel vs McIntosh...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NjXfzGoEdI&t=114s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E8ExBUC64c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ohq1of7Y8g&t=132s

One of these would be my choice - They both sound great!