2. amps-preamps
  3. 194518-1541

Need New amp or integrated...have some options

OK, posted a few days ago looking at a CLASSDAUDIO option to replace a dying McIntosh MC250. After lots more research, I dont think I am going that way now just to get this done, no time for testing. Thinking I am going to go integrated and use later as a backup. Been looking around on the Gon/USA/TMR etc for options and have seen a few things that I am either familiar with or have actually heard. In Hawaii, so it is a "blind faith Hail Mary" kind of buy for the most part. I see a Rega Elex mkii that gets good writeups at a good price for a demo unit. Also, some Rogue Sphinx V3/Magnum and Rotel A14mk2 and a larger Rotel 1572mk2 units and a few Marantz Model 50 and 30 and an Exposure 2510. Only one of these I have heard is the Rogue Sphinx in V3 form. All have enough power on paper, some allow for 2 sets of speakers which is a plus, some even have pre out option so I can use it as my pre with remote down the line. I probably sound a little crazy right now but I am trying to solve multiple problems (2 dead amps actually) and balance good sound now with options for down the road with this eventually being either a backup unit or moving to my office. I am interested especially in the Rega and Rotel input. I heard a Brio years ago and it impressed for what it was. Never heard modern Rotel. I like Marantz and had a PM8005 but thinking that I should try a different sound/pov. This stuff is entry level or one step up I know. (My wife quashed going into a higher investment by reminding me of other priorities (new car, paying for a river cruse she wants to do) so marital harmony takes precedence after 35 years.)  Anyone familiar with the sound, operation or reliability of these units, I appreciate your input. There is no substitute for others considered opinions given no options to listen. I kind of just want to get this done as I have other pressing things to address.  Mahalo.

joekapahulu

Showing 4 responses by hgeifman

hgeifman
2,326 posts
 

@joekapahulu 

I own the Musical Fidelity M-6Si integrated amp (list price is $3,149).  I am VERY surprised it sounds this good.  The M6si offers excellent performance, facilities, and power.  As per the Musical Fidelity web site “Internally, the M6si is configured as 2 independent monobloc power amps with a separate preamp. It is, in fact, a preamp with 2 monobloc power amps that just happen to share the same casework. The M6si has 220wpc. It has very low distortion, outstanding noise ratio and extremely flat frequency response”.   The M6si offers excellent performance, facilities, power and sounds very good.  

I am very happy with my Musical Fidelity M-6Si integrated am.  My speakers, PMC Twenty5.21 Speakers, (small version) sound terrific, the magic has returned, and I am very happy.  I do not know.  Is this amp within your budget?

My audio friends said synergy between components is what makes an audio system sound great. I hope this helps.  Obviously, in my system the Musical Fidelity M-6Si integrated amp is a perfect fit for my PMC speakers. 

hgeifman
2,326 posts
 

Maybe look at the Musical Fidelity M3si Integrated Amplifier?

“The M3si integrated amplifier produces high quality sound, has an extensive range of useful inputs and offers high reliability, compact size and a fair price. With its strong 85 watts per channel, the M3si will drive a huge variety of appropriate loudspeakers. It has inputs for phono (MM), 4 line inputs and USB ‘B’ up to 24bit 96 kHz.

The M3si’s sound is effortless, clear and sweet. It projects wide and deep images and has plenty of power to deliver excellent dynamic range.

The M3si is unconditionally stable and will drive any appropriate loudspeaker with ease.

Although it is Musical Fidelity’s lowest price amplifier, it embodies our hallmark values of uncoloured, stress-free sound, outstanding technical performance and great value for money.”. 

Click here for sale price

hgeifman
2,326 posts
 

Is this audio retailer near you?

Click here for Hawaii audio store

High End Audio & Home Theater at 

851 Pohukaina Street,

Honolulu, HI 96814.
 

hgeifman
2,326 posts
 

+1, “Musical Fidelity M3si Integrated Amplifier”.  I used this amp as a loaner while my main amp was being repaired, and it sounded very good. I recommend checking out its reviews and features before making a decision. 

 

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