2. amps-preamps
  3. 1173203918

speaker/amp combo for 1300?

Hi there,

I originally had an opportunity to purchase a vintage audio system (+25years) but decided to pass on the offer and explore other gears that are suitable for my musical tastes (within the constraints of my budget).

First, a brief introduction of myself: As a recent college grad I have lived with roommates during the last 5 years and as a result I have been listening to music primarily through headphones (e4c, ER4-S, and HD580). Finally I have the opportunity to invest in a very modest audio system. I am hoping to build a 2-channel system and will require a preamp/amp combo (or integrated) with a set of speakers, costing no more than 1300.

I listen mostly to intimate classical pieces (sonatas, quartets and concertos), female jazz vocals and folk/bluegrass (Dylan, Joni, Krauss, etc). I would love to have sweet sounding mids without sacrificing the highs. In terms of earphones, I sold the E4C’s and replaced it with the ER4-S because I couldn’t stand the recessed highs of the E4Cs.

With such a modest budget, I am seriously thinking of purchasing an integrated amp. The Portal Panache comes to mind, but within my budget constraints it may be more suitable to spend more on the speakers first. My source is a laptop containing my FLAC files that is connected to my Squeezebox.

Thank you in advance for your responses. Greatly appreciated!
agent_kang

Showing 3 responses by s7horton

s7horton
1,077 posts
 
One of my absolute favorite systems in that price range is the Audio Refinement complete with B&W CDM 1NT's. A fantastic set up when I had it.

I still own the audio refinement (this is my fifth one) although don't own the B&W's anymore. Just a simple great system that is good with female vocals, strings, acoustic music and even folk and bluegrass.
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
Tvad, I traded many times trying to find an integrated amp I liked better in that price range. Tubes, solid state, and hybrid and just kept going back to the audio refinement. I have one now and plan to keep it when I upgrade.
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
Of course there is a weakness to an amplifier that listed for $1000 and can be had on the used market for 500. It doesn't have the high end sparkle, it's not extremely powerful, and it can sound, at times, too warm.

But, for the price and the power, it's fantastic. The best I've heard in that price range. I haven't heard it all, but I have had:

Musical Fidelity A3
Musical Fidelity x150
Antique Sounds Labs 1003 DT
Pathos Classic One MkII
Anthem INT 2
Musical Fidelity A308

Musical Fidelity puts out some great integrateds in my opinion, even if they do update their equipment every six months. But, none of those (except the A3) can really be had for 500 or under.
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