2. amps-preamps
  3. 177579-11307

Need some suggestions for a desktop amp.

I'm in need of some ideas/suggestions for a desktop amp. built in DAC would be a plus but not necessary. I used to have a Naim Untitqute driving my Harbeth P3ESR's which are very nearfield. My issue with the Naim is the large form factor which takes up a lot of space on my desk. Although the sound and functionality was great with the built in DAC and all.

The issue is, most amps with a smaller form factor made for desks are Headphone amps and not speaker amps. 

I tried a little Chinese amp but the ChiFi amp I ordered wouldn't work hooked up via USB to my iMac like it was adverstied to. So back it went.

I considered buying some Active Speakers but have never had any experience with them so not sure what direction to go. I love my little Harbeths so would like to keep them but I'm open to making a change if need be.

I'm close to pulling the trigger on a Nuprime IDA-8. However, I wanted to get others opinions first.

Thank you for your thoughts.

 

jb505

Showing 1 response by soix

soix
10,015 posts
 

The Bel Canto C5i may well tick all your boxes and save you $$$ buying used, and there’s a nice one now on USAM for only $825 (retail $1895). It puts out 60Wpc into 8 Ohms and doubles into 4 Ohms that should be more than ample power for a desktop setup, and as BC makes some of the better DACs on the market it may well beat your DAC in which case you could sell your DAC to offset even more of the BC’s cost. There are several reviews you can read for more insights/info. Just another option FWIW, and best of luck.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649840775-bel-canto-c5i-dacintegrated/

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