New SS integrated choice....Rotel 1572Mk2, Audiolab 7000A, Exposure 2510


OK, got sick for awhile and off course on buying a new integrated to replace Marantz PM8005 to be moved to office. Looking to upgrade my sound quality overall.  (Was looking at Belles Aria but got off the record feedback units have been having some higher than average issue rates so I am moving onto other options.) Reviews online got me focused on 3 in particular, none of which I have heard before namely Rotel 1572MK2, Audiolab 7000a or 9000a and Exposure 2510. First two are readily available and I can get shipped to Hawaii free which is attractive as it saves $150-200. I want new because it ups odds of satisfaction especially as no techs in HI. Will drive Kef R300s or Ohm Walsh 2-100s in 14 x14 LR with arched 9 ft ceilings rising to 20 feet. Looking to keep costs below $3k new. I dont know what the "British" sound really means...only have heard Rega Brio which was fine but sideways move. Interested in feedback from anyone familiar with these brands, sound characteristics, reliability, etc. Aloha.

joekapahulu

Showing 3 responses by soix

Looking to upgrade my sound quality overall.

This is far too vague to make a meaningful recommendation so can you be more specific?  What improvements are you looking for?  .

I guess more detail, clarity and separation of instruments, more realistic sound of music.

At your higher budget level you should take a hard look at the Hegel H390 as it will give you what you’re looking for in spades.  Here’s a good review in case it’s helpful…

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1365-hegel-music-systems-h390-integrated-amplifier-dac

Ah paradise comes at a price. I’ll throw in the Hegel H120 as another good option as long as you’re using a separate DAC because its USB input is limited in resolution. Hegel products have a good overall reputation for reliability as well.  Here’s a review just fyi…

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1412-hegel-music-systems-h120-integrated-amplifier-dac