2. amps-preamps
  3. 131907-88446

Mid grade Integrated amp choices

Currently, I have a Rotel A12, which is decent, but I am ready to upgrade. My other equipment is a Bluesound Node 2, Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Esprit turntable, and Sonus Faber Chameleon T speakers with Nordost cabling throughout. At first, I was going to upgrade speakers, but after home auditioning the Dynaudio Contour 20's and Focal 1008 Be's, I felt that my integrated was the weakest link currently. 

 So, I have been auditioning a few amps (several at home) for the last few weeks. So far, I have home auditioned:

NAD 388 (with the BluOS card) - Class D gives weight to bass, but otherwise, it's just okay
Simaudio Moon ACE - Nice, certainly better than the Rotel, very good warranty and build
Simaudio Moon 340i - Seemed too boomy with bass and a little brittle on the top end
Bryston b60r - Nice, really good sound. Great warranty
Plinius Hautonga - Blew me away. Yes, the 200 watts may have had a lot to do with it. But, the soundstage was huge and everything was so detailed.

I will be dealer auditioning this Friday:

Rega Elex -R
Rogue Sphinx
Naim 5si

Anyone have any experience with the Rega, Rogue or Naim against the Plinius? I don't know if I want to spend that much on an integrated right now and am hoping that one of the ones I am auditioning Friday will blow me away. Thoughts? Comments?

-Brian   
128x128bkmaxey
gdnrbob
4,419 posts
 
OP,If you do consider tubes, then an Atma-Sphere amp would be my choice. Though keep in mind tubes give off a lot of heat.

I still recommend buying used and saving a ton of depreciation. I can't say I have ever had a problem that even a warranty would correct. In fact, despite buying used, the manufacturers still provided me with top notch service.
B
jafant
18,964 posts
 
bkmaxey-
you are certainly in the best of company regarding the pieces on your list.
The final decision will be a matter of preference. Keep listening and writing!
roseofsa's avatar
roseofsa
51 posts
 
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum.
Mine took awhile to break in but the result is well worth it. I had a bias issue several months ago and thought I'd hafta send it to the factory but the designer, I think his name is Bill, he stayed on phone with me for several hours, and sent replacement parts for free, and we got it fixed. Nuff said...try it
bkmaxey's avatar
bkmaxey OP
37 posts
 
I have started checking out tube amps now and have fallen in love with Primaluna. I am going to audition the Dialogue this weekend to see if it's a good fit with my current Chameleon T's.
More to discover