Hi, I’ve got 3 integrated amps that I am comparing now.
I own 2 and a dealer has lent me a demo.
Reason I have looked at a change is I got new speakers.
The amps are PrimaLuna Evo 400, Coda CSiB and a Krell K-300i. All are fantastic in there own way. Synergy with amp / speaker match is key. Krell’s new XD amps are known to pair really well with the speakers I recently bought and guess what, the Krell sounds the best. Not because it’s better but because it matches up with the speakers needs the best. The Krell also matches up with my sound preferences.
My new speakers are 92/93 db and are supposed to be easy to drive. While all 3 amps drive them, the grunt of the SS amps brings out the best. I’ve had lower sensitivity speakers that the Primaluna drives with as much or more authority than SS amps. My recommendation echos others in that hearing, auditioning is key, specs on a sheet of paper often don’t really tell the full story.
The new speakers I recently purchased are Alta Audio Alec’s. Small boutique speaker brand, best speakers I’ve ever had. Matched with the Krell, they are simply stunning.
Millercarbon - I am thinking of trying the Krell 300 xd - amp only, you spoke of the virtues of Integrated Amps being better than separate components. If I went with the stand alone amp I would be hooking my streamer / DAC directly into the amp. What’s your rational for Integrated amps being better? Does that logic apply to SS or is that a comment specific to Tubes? Wasn’t familiar with the Amps you referenced from the beginning of your audio journey, the more recent amps you referenced seemed to all be Tube Amps.
Happy Holidays!