Sugden A21SE integrated already mentioned. It’s really that good. I’m listening to the older version right now through ATC 7 baby monitors. Class A amplification is quite remarkable…..when done properly. Best of luck finding your sound.
Looking for recommendations for integrated with a more “organic” sound.
Hello all,
I hope that you are all doing well, and that I might tap into your collective knowledge base and experience to find a new amplifier.
Current system includes Bluesound Node2>Denafrips Enyo>Dayens Ampino>Zu DW6 Superflys. I stream probabaly 95% but maybe 5% is vinyl or CD. I sometimes use it to watch movies in 2.0, but that’s not my main concern.
I’m really enjoying the sound of this setup. Very organic with nice harmonic richness. Surprisingly good bass extension and smooth and pleasant highs. Imaging is good.
What I would like to do is preserve that natural and organic sound, while also adding more inputs (Ampino only has 2) improving bass definition/control and impact, and perhaps elevating detail retrieval. I would trade a bit of smoothness for a bit more HF extension. A basic remote is also on the checklist.
My budget is maybe $2500, but I’m not in a desperate position, I could potentially stretch it a little if I wait.
New units are preferred, but I would consider used if it achieves my goals.
I’m open to SS or tubes, but cost of the tubes is a concern. I’m susceptible to tuberoll-itis. Speakers are pretty sensitive, so mega-watts are not required.
The system is in a medium sized living room which has 9” ceilings and is open to a kitchen and dining room, so there’s lots of volume. Most listening is at moderate volumes, but I’ve been known to crank it on occasion. Musical tastes are extremely varied.
basically, I’m looking to maintain the organic tone and natural presentation while improving performance, adding input options (3 minimum) and adding remote.
I don’t want a DAC, but a better-than-basic phono stage would be a bonus. I’m more interested in performance than features.
Is there anything out there that might fit the bill?
Thank you in advance for your input.
Tom
- ...
- 71 posts total
@mboldda1 I’m with you. Reading AND math skills fail! At least the Sugden suggested can be found used for the $2500 and possibly a bit more stated by OP. |
I have a Margules ACRH3 hybrid integrated. IMO has a beautiful organic sound, musical and solid. The MM phono preamp is excellent. It’s been discontinued as Margules has rolled out a new version, ACRH4. |
I love how people want a better piece of equipment and then they give you the budget and it’s WAY TOO SMALL TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE and you can’t have better for that price! if your budget is $2500 that means the damn thing cost $500 to build there is zero room in that budget to make anything but the chassis of a good piece of equipment with no room in your budget for any electronics to go inside at audio grade levels! if you want a decent integrated amplifier, you need a budget of at least 10-20 grand. I’m sorry anything under that your getting av receiver Best Buy level parts. |
- 71 posts total