need an integrated amp, only 700$ left..


Dear Philes, I recently purchased a pair of psb Stratus Bronze speakers and Marantz 67se CD. I need and amp/pre-amp or integrated and have 700$ left. What should I buy to make these psb's "sing" Thank you, Bennett
hififile
Any of the following would do well, I think, provided you can located used ones: 1. Quad 34/44 preamp with Quad 405-2 power amp (100 wpc). 2. Classé CAP 100 3. Any of the others recommended above.
Go tubes. Look into a Jolida 502A. This 60 WPC integrated amp can be had used for about $500 to $600 used, and is one of the best ways to get that tube magic without busting your wallet. I have had one for about 4 years, it sounds fantasic and is very relyable.
Do not pass Go, Go directlt to the Creek A4330 ($499) or A4330R ($599 with remote) and buy some software on the way home. Don't worry about it being 40 wpc and driving your speakers. I heard this amp play a pair of Totem Mani-2's which were right out of the box new. Anyone who knows this loudspeaker will attest that it is one of the hardest speakers on the planet to drive, and they take abot six months to break in properly. The Creek A4330 played them beautifully to quite amazing spl with sweetness and inner detail. Remember, The Creek is 100% made in England, some of the others mentioned items which are made in China and elsewhere. I don't think you can do better for (less than) your $700.
I would have to agree with the gentleman above, check out a used Audio Refinement complete integrated amp. The amp is rated at 50 wpc but I will have no problem driving your speakers. I have had mine for about 6 months and it is the best amp I have ever owned. It is a steal for 600-700. Good luck.
I concurr the the Audio Refinement recommendation. If you're willing to buy used or a demo unit I would recommend the Audio Anologue Puccini SE. At $312 the NAD C-340, available from from various sources, is hard to beat. Not as good as the previous recommendation, but damn good sound for dollar.