2. amps-preamps
  3. 155629-137500

Thoughts on choosing an amplifier

After much thinking, too much actually. I have narrowed my amplifier choices down to a Parasound a21+, a Benchmark AHB2, or two Schitt Aegirs. Presently, my modest system is a Pioneer PL 71 turntable with an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge into a Schitt Mani into a NAD C 326BEE feeding Quad 12L Classic monitors. Time for an upgrade, eh? I though I would start with an amp and some more speakers. 

The plan is to remove the jumper on the NAD integrated and use the NAD as a preamp until I choose a preamp to go with the amp. For what it is worth, I am leaning towards a tube preamp - maybe a 6NS7. I also plan to buy a few modestly priced speakers, such as Magneplan LRS,  Zu Omen Dirty Weekend, Bowers & Wilkins 603, GoldenEar Triton Five, KEF LS50, or Warfedale Linton, rather than one more expensive speaker. I like the idea of swapping out speakers for fun, type of music, etc. So I am looking for an amplifier that pairs well with many different types of speakers designs.  Which one of the three amplifiers would you choose?

From reading the forums, people often ask the poster what type of music they like to listen to. My music tastes run from Americana to jazz to opera to classic rock to ambient electronic; mostly Americana and jazz tho.

Thank you in advance for your collective advice. It is very much appreciated.
Cheers,
BigMusic - First time poster
bigmusic
mglik
897 posts
 
One of the best sounds I have ever heard for anywhere near the price was at CES several years ago. A pair of KEF LS 50s powered by a Prima Luna integrated tube amp. The amps you mentioned are all good, especially the Pass XA 25, but all have an electronic edge.
If you are already leaning toward a tube preamp, go integrated tube! Put your money into a smooth, natural and musical foundation for a great sounding system you can build on and enjoy for years. Rather than trying to mix and match with mixed results, lots of cables and lots of money. The KEF/Prima Luna combination is a sure thing. And focus on upgrading your source. I would highly recommend even an entry level Rega TT and entry level phono stage and move up some in the Ortofon cartridge line. I have been at this game for 61 years.
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paullyrockets's avatar
paullyrockets
31 posts
 
Consider a pair of M700 Monoblock’s from PS Audio..
Better reviewed and cheaper than the Benchmark and listed as a ’A’ Component by Stereophile in the most recent issue..
I run them with a Schiit Freya and XLR connections..

buellrider97
369 posts
 
Zu and Maggie’s ! Wow that’s a stretch . I’m in the Zu camp . First Watt for SS, Had Inspire for tube are both great . I run a Schiit Yiggy and a restored and modded Thorens . But your locked into the low power world . Wanna cover all those speakers you listed , try Bryston ( over your budget ). Talk to AGON member “ rvpiano “. He has the Benchmark , Tritons , a recapped Conrad Johnson tube pre . Runs a TT and Schiit Gumby . We both love NOS Telefunkens in our pre amps . Both of our systems have a wide soundstage and crystal clear imaging . But he’s at 100wpc and I’m at 12 WPC . My system has its limitations. I suggest you PM him and chat . He’s very pleasant to talk with . Also I’m classic rock and he’s classical . If I can be of any help , feel free to PM me . Regards , Mike B. 
bigmusic OP
5 posts
 
Once again great suggestions. I may reach out to a couple of you if that is okay.

Thank you so much,
BigMusic
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