2. amps-preamps
  3. 191177-158118

Primare/ Vincent Adio /NAD /Rogue/ AVA /Hegel...- need a simple and reliable integrated

I came up with this list based on price and functions but all I know is that they are (mostly) boutique brands, cherished by audiophiles. I have heard NAD and Vincent and none of the rest. 

  • Vincent SV-500
  • Primare I2*
  • Rogue Sphinx v2
  • Audio by Van Alstine Vision SLR 
  • Hegel H160/ H120
  • NAD C368
  • Simaudio Moon I-5

I don't stream, I have a turntable and CD player. I am good with 50Watts per channel, and I would like to avoid tubes for no-fuss maintenance. I have Klipsch RP8000F speakers. I prefer sound on the warm side, I mostly listen to 60s and 70s rock and some soul/jazz/blues. I have decent hearing, I enjoy a nice soundstage but I nothing as critical and analytical as some of you/the typical audiophile. 

I am a bit shallow, looks are important :) My budget would allow me to buy one of these used 5-10 years old (stretched... price is key, I would prefer a cheaper model with less functions)

If you own or have heard any of them and can tell me what the best choice/value is based on sound and reliability, that would be a great help.

gano

Showing 10 responses by mesch

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Why do you need a phonostage? I believe you said you have one. You are also using a CD player. Have i missed something?

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Which phonostage and CD player do you own? 

mesch
3,529 posts
 

I agree that if you can increase your budget to the $1500 point better options become available. If I was looking for a SS integrated at that price point I would be looking at AVA . Their Control amplifier is now the C1, and was the SET 120 . They have a used SET 120 that is a little over 1 year old for sale listed on their website. 

Best of luck in your search.

mesch
3,529 posts
 

While I have had experience with the Audio Refinement Complete integrated amplifier  and thought it a wonderful unit, I believe the asking price on the one mentioned above is too high. This amp sold  new for ~$1000  about 20 years ago.

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Check out the SS integrateds for sale here on ag.  Use the 'price low to high' function.  

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Since you remain interested in NAD I would look for a used C326BEE or C356BEE integrated amplifier. I have owned both  and find them excellent for the $.  

mesch
3,529 posts
 

@gano the confusion was probably mine.  Maybe it was an issue abut amp having preamp outputs?

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Yes, NAD appears somewhat 'plain Jane'.  However i ave always found the sonics to be to my liking given the price point. I like the fact that the preamp and amp sections can be separated. They also have a second pre output for powered subwoofer. 

 

 

mesch
3,529 posts
 

Not heard any of the new NAD products. 

mesch
3,529 posts
 

@gano There is a like new Rega Elex integrated for sale on AG. It is up for 

$995,  retail was ~$1700. 

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