2. amps-preamps
  3. 133726-108327

looking for a new pre/amp or integrated amp

I am new here, and this is my first post.  I am looking for either a pre/amp or integrated amp, specifically for listening to music.  Here is what I'd like the solution to have:
  • Ethernet jack (for connecting to my home computer to play music files of CD's I've ripped)
  • 2 channel (this is not going to be a surround sound setup)
  • Wifi (I'd like to play Spotify)
  • XLR inputs (for the CD/DVD/Blu ray player) - I'm not sure this is critical, as I think optical digital might be just as good.
  • 90-140Watts 
  • Phono input
  • Price range: $1000-2000
Does anyone have any suggestions?  I've looked at Yamaha, Anthem, Marantz, and Parasound, but I haven't found anything that checks all these boxes.  Thank you!  Doug
dougmint

Showing 3 responses by mesch

mesch
3,529 posts
 
The requirement for a ethernet connection seems to me to be the tough box.

 Check out the Bluesound Node 2 ($500), which has ethernet will allow streaming music. Leaving rest of budget for a separate integrated amplifier with phonostage.   
mesch
3,529 posts
 
In my opinion a $2000 investment into a 2 box solution, a server and an integrated amplifier, would prove to be a a better investment, both sonically and ecconomicaly, over the short and long term, than a AVR. With the latter one is paying for too many devices that will never be used, many imposing on the signal being amplified.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Doug, As I stated in my 1st post of 1/24, check out the Bluesound Node 2. I am considering a Bluesound products myself, likely the Vault 2. I want to rip CDs.

The cost of the Node 2 would leave ~$1500 of your budget for an 2 channel  integrated amplifier.
More to discover