2. amps-preamps
  3. 133123-107000

Rega Brio or...?

I have a 3-year old Pro-Ject Debut Carbon (which has an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge) and a set of Tannoy Revolution R3 floor standing speakers (6-Ohm, 89dB). Currently, I am using a cheap Behringer phono amp and a Sonos Connect:Amp. I wish to upgrade to an analogue integrated amp so that I have an analogue signal path. I listen to a variety of different types of music and the room has a vaulted ceiling and has glass at either end. I do not need high volumes for extended periods of time. My budget is under $1,000 including a phono stage. Finally, I’m partial to a British manufacturer to “keep it in the family” so to speak (though I realize that only my speakers are British :) )

I’m leaning towards the Rega Brio (2017 version). I’ve considered the Creek Evolution 50A, but this will break my budget especially when I add a phono amp, unless I can find a used example.

Thanks for any thoughts!
gromitinwa

Showing 5 responses by gromitinwa

gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks. I had not thought to check Amazon for reviews. Higher end audio is not something that I associate with Amazon.
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks smrex13. Yes the reviews are disturbing. Perhaps a case of “if you get a good one it’s great, if not...”

Samac - thanks for th Arcam suggestion. I did not realize that the Arcam A19 has been discontinued. It still shows on their website and retailers are pricing it at $995.

Any thoughts on the Creek 50A? I’d need to add a Phono amp or their module but I’ve found a mint used one for around $550.
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks Scott, much appreciated!
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Thanks ethos123.

I'm leaning back towards the Brio. Found a local source at a decent price, so I can easily get support if needed. I really like the look of the Creek but the used one I was looking at is in Canada, not the US and I have learned that they are made in China. I would really like to buy a designed in the UK, built in the UK unit, which leaves Rega in my price range. There's no particularly good reason for this desire but oh well...
gromitinwa's avatar
gromitinwa OP
11 posts
 
Yes I will definitely post an update and I really appreciate the insights that you’ve all provided, especially to a new member of this forum. It might take me a little while - have to actually make the purchase, arrange everything and head to CES as well... I’ll try to restrain myself whilst there :)
More to discover