2. amps-preamps
  3. 1048827657

'newer' Integrated Vs. 'older' Separates

I've been looking for either a pre/ power combo or a high powered integrated amp to use in my system. I will be running a pair of NHT 2.5i's and my source is a Rotel 971 transport and MSB link Dac III with half nelson upgrade. I will not change these components for the time being.

Here's my dilemma:

I had been eyeing an Audio Research LS 3Br (balanced, with remote) which seems to be (is?) hard to find. I was going to couple it with a power amp (that was yet to be determined), probably the likes of an Audio Research D130 or a Blue Circle BC22.

Unfortunately, the LS-3Br was sold before I got to it (it was sold in a matter of a couple of days from when i first saw it). I am extremely annoyed at having hesitated with the purchase in the first place which resulted in a missed opportunity. I realize I can get a standard LS-3 or LS-3B fairly easily, BUT I want a remote control.

Now, for slightly less money than what the aformentioned items would have cost me, I can pick up a demo model Classé CAP 151. It has remote and it has some nice features including the ablity to separate the amp and preamp in the unit. Essentially, this would be a convenient way to incorporate the unit into home theatre.

I have heard the CAP 151 with a pair of NHT SB4's and was not particularly impressed. I mean, it sounded good, but i'm not familiar with that speaker and so i'm not sure if the shortcomings were from the speakers or the integrated.

I have NOT heard the LS3BR and it would have been purchased based on its reviews, its remote and the calibre of Audio Research's name.

I'm not sure that I want to wait for another LS3Br to come along (which could take a LONG time) or if i should just go with the classe cap 151.

Are they in the same league at all? would the ARC preamp and amp combo walk all over the highly regarded Classé?
What kinds of sound quality advantages would one have over the other given my setup?

I do NOT like up front, in your face presentation, but I also do NOT like a presentation that is too laid back.

Should I get the CAP 151 or should I wait for other used ARC gear to come around?

Frustrated beyond belief,
loose

Showing 1 response by rapogee

rapogee
256 posts
 
Go for the Classe CAP151!

You could get some great deals on older gear like the ARC pre and Power combos for sure! I had all the combos, ARC with Krell, Classe, Gryphon, Tube and ST and all tube and lately I have been learning something!

If you dont need the monsterous power to drive an Apogee Diva like me, these are my new targets:

Jeff Rowland Concentra/ Mark Levinson integrated/ The BAT for some reason was not my cup of tea/ YBS Passion and the MOON 5 integrated! Very nice pieces and not forgetting the Classe CAP151 (great value for the money, will control your NHT's) Good luck! New engineering does go forward most of the time but not always! These new integrated amplifiers do sound very very musical and they look sharp as well.

You save a fortune on your amplification with out the fancy interconnects!
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