Meitner MA3 amp/integrated suggestions


I recently picked up a used Meitner MA3 to combine my streamer and DAC into one unit. I've been blown away by this unit and it's DAC, but more surprisingly it's preamp/volume control have been excellent! I'm currently running it directly into my beloved Oliver Sayes 421a tube amp, with excellent results. 

Since I listen almost 8hrs a day, I don't want to burn my tubes that much, so I thought I'd look for a solid state amp, or integrated. Reason I thought amp first was because of the excellent volume control on the MA3. 

What are you guys connecting the MA3 to? wpc not a concern since I use highly efficient speakers. since this won't be my main amp i'ld like to find something in the under $3k used budget. Suggestions welcome 

128x128kray

Showing 3 responses by kray

@blisshifi thanks for the response. Oh man. My virtual system is 20yrs old. Needs updating 😂

yes I’m using Daedalus 97db speakers in a 13.5’x12.5’ room. So somewhat near field intimate setup. Dedicated room. Yeah I’m not looking to meet or exceed the Sayes. But something I can live with. I’m testing out a Naim Uniti Atom for fun and must say it surprised me. Very musical and good value for all in one. But instead of having two separate systems like that I just want to pair up a sweet sounding musical ss amp to the Meitner so I can leave on all day while I’m working.  

@ghasley hi Geoff! Yes the Sayes 421a is a keeper. I also foolishly sold a dual mono 46 SET he built for me. Thanks for the suggestions. I had a LFD years ago and do remember it was super close to tubes and may need to relook at it. Similarly was a Belles Aria I had, but read the SA100 is sweet amp only. The Leben is another good choice to look into. Never heard one but always glowing support. 
 

@blisshifi youre right. Tons of folks pair of the Modwright with Daedalus. That used FW M2 looks tempting too. I might have to just buy and sell a ton of used amps to figure it out. 

@juanmanuelfangioii lol. That’s exactly why I was trying to add a solid state to my tube collection. I have 3 WE421a’s piled up, and it’s almost impossible to find them for less than $500 a pop now. At least my amp is only 3 tubes total. Can’t imagine having to swap out 6 or 8 tubes in one amp

Hey @doni thanks for the suggestion. Doing some research now and like the small form factor for a class A product. I was also ready to pull the trigger on a Belles SA100 that has been listed for over a month but of course as soon as I respond it’s pending sale to someone else.