I think Jolida provides better value than Prima Luna at around half their price, but Prima Luna has a large advertising budget and Jolida has seemingly none, and my comments about those guys are free (hint hint JOLIDA!).
Best budget integrated choices
I had a Sugden A21 some years ago but it died an unfortunate death.
I am looking for a budget (defined as as cheap as possible) integrated to power my LS3/5a V2 (a little easier to drive than the original) to not loud levels.
I worked myself into a tizzy of joy reading reviews of the Onkyo A-9010 Integrated Stereo Amplifier to only find out that the UK version is the one voiced (if I can say that) with a nice warm presentation. I am a tube guy at heart but appreciate a warm SS amp.
What else should I be looking at. I am a but apprehensive on used SS after mine died.
Thoughts?
I am looking for a budget (defined as as cheap as possible) integrated to power my LS3/5a V2 (a little easier to drive than the original) to not loud levels.
I worked myself into a tizzy of joy reading reviews of the Onkyo A-9010 Integrated Stereo Amplifier to only find out that the UK version is the one voiced (if I can say that) with a nice warm presentation. I am a tube guy at heart but appreciate a warm SS amp.
What else should I be looking at. I am a but apprehensive on used SS after mine died.
Thoughts?
- ...
- 49 posts total
I have one of these that I am very happy with. Not warm. Neutral, yet sweet. It takes the edge off a pair of Cantons I’ve heard described as bright. I can listen all day. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rotel-RX-1052-2-Channel-100-Watt-Receiver-/292034234485?hash=item43fe98c875:... I wouldn’t consider Marantz, Arcam, or Parasound moving up. However, If I found $1500 to $2000 under a rock I’d be down at my dealer’s store comparing a Rogue to Belles Aria so fast it would make your head spin. Then one town over for the Prima Luna. I've never heard a Jolida. |
Non fancy, audio only, used integrateds are a great option. The older models have excellent sound and built to last. Try Classe CAP-101, CAP-151, etc; Bryston B-60, Krell KAV-300i, various NAD, Hegel, LFD. Tubes, you could try Primaluna (sorry, don't know tube stuff very well). If you need a DAC, try Peachtree Nova series, NAD, Rotel? Good luck |
Hey Stephen been abou 12 years now since we last spoke. I still have your rosewood Rogers LS3/5a's and AB-1 subs. I sold my Sugden A21aL and A21P a few months ago. Made for each other "a match made in heaven" I have taken a slight move in another direction and now use a pair of Tannoy Golds driven with ASL 845 mono's I have put the Rogers up for sale but no firm offer yet. cheers, Ron |
I agree with the Peachtree recommendations. Here is a review on the new 150 http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/716-peachtree-audio-nova150-review/ They also have a 30 guarantee. Dont like it within 30 days send it back. But I have never tried this. I do have one of there iDacs from days of yore and liked it. And when I called about and issue they answered the phone and offered a solution. I may have to try their new Sona Amp some day. There older integrateds can be found on ebay for around $600 |
- 49 posts total