2. amps-preamps
  3. 157740-24

Integrated Amp $1200 or less

I’m currently using an Anthem I225 integrated amp and am consider a different integrated.

I would prefer solid state.  I am not opposed to used and actually prefer that route if I can get more bang for the buck that way.

Im wanting something that still has enough power to drive my speakers (Fritz Carreras) to satisfyingly high levels.

I’m preferring an integrated so I don’t need an additional power cord and rca cords.

I’m open to suggestions.  I could be swayed into spending a little more if I can get alot more performance.

I’m looking for more refinement.  My source is a bluesound node 2i and I’m currently using the dac in the bluesound.  
I’d prefer getting an integrated with no dac and will upgrade my Dac later.  Again, I wouldn't rule out a great integrated that has a dac!


Thanks ahead of time for the suggestions!


128x128b_limo
decooney
1,906 posts
 

@rayray7488
I have the Anthem i225 and really enjoy the sound from it. It is would have to be a wonderful amp at a great price to switch.

@rayray7488
Like b_limo (OP), if you have the same 2009+ version of the Anthem i225 amp (Sonic Frontiers - tube amp company) designed and built the amp for Anthem, now owned by Paradigm. One of the better designed integrated amps back then and still very competitive today in terms of pure sound. Some of the new amps under $3k are not built as well today. 

@b_limo 
With your new Fritz Carerra speakers coming, you might be surprised what your current amp will do WHEN paired with a really good DAC to go with your Bluesound Node2i.   

Old review, Anthem i225, awards:
https://www.goodsound.com/equipment/anthem_integrated_225.htm
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,819 posts
 
@b_limo agree with decooney and mesch and others on the value of your anthem and prospect for improvement via DAC
dengief
13 posts
 
I was in a similar position as you several months ago.  I tried a new integrated.  I got a smoking deal at Music Direct for a B stock Arcam SA20 and while I really really like it, I ended up swinging for the fences and upgraded my Node 2i altogether for a LUMIN D2.  I’ll put it this way, this was such a mind boggling improvement that I decided to move the Arcam and the Node 2i to another room for a second system.  The LUMIN was such a dramatic improvement and I continue to be gobsmacked by it.  There is also an upgrade path for it by upgrading its power supply with a SBooster.  I’ll be doing that in the near future.  My point is, cry once, smile once.  I say swing for the fences And upgrade the source altogether.
b_limo's avatar
b_limo OP
2,273 posts
 
Whoa, I was not expecting that many more responses.  
I’m sorry, I should have given you all an update. 
I was already on the same page.  My next big purchase will be a really nice dac 👍

Once I pay for the Carreras, my spending may slow down so I may even get a better dac in the $500-$700 range for the interim before I drop $2000 on a dac.

I’ve already had the Carreras in this set-up and loved them; thats why I’m buying a pair!

Anyhow, Thank You everyone for the sound advice and helping me work through that decision!

My next thread started will probably be which dac below $700 ish...

Thanks Again!!
decooney
1,906 posts
 
And/Or, check 17 prior related threads about adding an external DAC to a Bluesound streamer

https://forum.audiogon.com/search/index?fields=titles&query=DAC+bluesound&sort=date

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