2. amps-preamps
  3. 1234380241

Thoughts on the best bang for the buck

Hi All,
I am looking to put together a system that will provide the best possible sound for the dollar (probably a common request) I am sold on the primary source, Apple TV and the speakers, Magnepan MG 12's but I'm not sure about the best DAC and amp.

My short list includes the Peachtree Decco or the Cambridge DACMagic & 640A integrated.

I have listened to the Decco with Apple TV and a pair of stand-mounted B&Ws and was really impressed with the sound. I love the design and the tube pre-amp, my concern is the 50wpc. I don't know if that will be sufficient to get the most out of the Maggies. I know the Decco has pre-outs but a stand-alone power amp to accompany the Decco would blow-out the budget. (most of my listening will be at low to moderate volumes)

I have not auditioned the Cambridge stuff (I don't think it's available locally) but I have read nothing but glowing reviews.

I would really appreciate any feedback; thanks in advance!
pduff

Showing 6 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
The Decco has a 80w/ch big brother called the Nova.

http://www.signalpathint.com/index.php/Peachtree-Audio-Products/Peachtree-Audio-Products.html.

Probably the best bang for least amount of money.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
If you like to crank it up, more than 80w/ch may be needed for Maggies.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
A second hand Musical Fidelity A3.5 integrated would do well I think.

Consider picking up something second hand here on A'gon. You'll surely get more bang for the buck and not take a loss if you decide to upgrade further later.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
BAsed on what sfar said, it looks like the Decco or perhaps eve Nova as pre-amp outputs that enable it to be used with a separate power amp. That would excellent!

You could start with Decco or Nova and then upgrade with a separate high power power amp later if needed.

In this scenario, I could easily also recommend the Musical Fidelity A3CR I use in my system or other MF power amp equivalent as the amp upgrade if needed.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
Pduff,

Sounds like a reasonable plan.

Good luck!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,762 posts
 
"So for the price of a refurb unit $500 does the decco then become a great buy? "

That would seem to be the case.
More to discover