2. amps-preamps
  3. 157945-143699

Rogue Sphinx or Belles Aria???

I've recently been building up my system over the past year getting into the mid/hi-fi level and have finally reached the point of upgrading my amplifier [currently older Yamaha A-S500]. 
I'm looking for an integrated amp in the ~$2k range [I don't have space or budget for separates] and think I finally have it narrowed down between a Rogue Sphinx v3 and a Belles Aria.  I'm only listening to vinyl so have no need to worry about a DAC.

The Rogue has many positive reviews so think it would be a pretty safe bet and while I can only find one professional Belles Aria reviews the personal reviews in various forums seem to be pretty spectacular and seems to punch above its class so I'm really intrigued. 
Unfortunately, I'm not in the position to demo either of these personally so I'm looking for advice; especially if any one has ever compared side by side.

The rest of my setup is as follows:
B&W 705 stand-mounts
Rega Planar P3 w/ Elys MM
Audioquest Sydney interconnects

I really appreciate any advice...thanks!

dsjs4
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
One thing at a time.  If you skimp on something now, you'll only regret it later.
b_limo's avatar
b_limo
2,274 posts
 
I’ve actualy heard that the Belles Aria is a horrible amp.  If anyone sees one for resale, especially in silver, please pm me so that I can buy it and destroy it as to save someone else from making a horrible decision.  
Thank you and have a good day.
recroom
21 posts
 
It's hard to know if you're serious.  Where, may I ask, or from whom, have you "heard that the Belles Aria is a horrible amp"?  You can't simply put that statement out there without some evidence to back it up.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
Irony alert!

Just to be painfully clear: b_limo is implying he wants it for himself--i.e. another strong recommendation.
b_limo's avatar
b_limo
2,274 posts
 
Yes, irony.  I have heard nothing but good things about the Aria.  I have a pair of Fritz Carrera BE’s that I absolutely love and when Fritz caught wind of me wanting to purchase a new integrated amp, Fritz recommended the Aria.  After researching the Aria, it seems like everyone who has heard it really likes it.

I have been looking for one on the second hand market for weeks now and can’t find any.  

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