Opinions on these budget integrateds?


Searching to replace a NAD C352 with a new/used integrated that will provide a meaningful sonic upgrade.  Looking at options around $2,000 or below, and I don't want it to be a sideways move.

I'm keeping my old Allison One speakers, at least for now, as they work very well with my particular room conditions. 

Would love to get opinions on the options below.  I'm looking for ease and musicality, but the ability to articulate dense music is also important. No internal DAC required.

-Belles Aria - very intrigued

-Quicksilver Integrated - have never had tubes before but am open to them

-Primaluna Prologue or Dialogue - might be over my budget

-Audio Note OTO SE - one day!  but probably cannot power the Allisons

-Sugden a21 SE

-Yamaha A-S2100 

-Parasound Halo

-Unison Research Unico Integrated

-Exposure 2010 S2

-Primare i22

Any thoughts at all are welcome, and I haven't heard ANY of these!  Thanks in advance. 


sforrey

Showing 3 responses by twoleftears

There have been threads on here about Yamaha integrated's needing to be sent back straight out of the box.  Fortunately, bought through a real store rather than a dubious website.  Personally, I would have thought "boutique" manufacturers were a better bet for back-up.  Would you rather deal with a caring person in Pittsford, New York or a large, multi-national, Japan-based corporation?
@sforrey David Belles is definitely not like the craftsman you mention.  Talk to Johnny Rutan at Audio Connection if you need more of a recommendation.
This clearance sale on the Nuforce power amp is a stone cold bargain.  Pair with a decent but not too expensive preamp and you have an integrated-beating combo.

https://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=1NUSTA200