2. amps-preamps
  3. 158059-1749

What integrated should I upgrade to?

Hi folks,

Firstly, my apologies for yet another "what should I" post.  But I'd like to seek the advice of my Audiogon brethren.  

Currently, in my second system used mostly for TV viewing, I have a pair of Wharfedale Reva 3 floorstanding loudspeakers, a Cambridge Audio CXA80 integrated amp / DAC and an Auralic Aries Mini streamer.  Wired with transparent Music Link / Wave cables and Shunyata Hydra Talos conditioner and Voodoo Fire power cable to the CXA80.  

I've been itching to upgrade the integrated amp, as I figure it is what's holding things back from a resolution standpoint.  I moved a better DAC (PS Audio Direct Stream Junior) to the second system and it didn't make a discernible difference given the existing gear.  I then moved the Reva 3's up to my reference system and plugged them in and they sounded wonderful!  I've got a Luxman 590axII integrated in that system with the PS Audio Direct Stream Junior DAC.  The power foundation is nearly the same; using Shunyata Denali there.  

So it leads me to conclude that the CXA80 needs upgrading.  

I have been considering a nice used Luxman 550ax or trying the new PS Audio Strata integrated.  I kinda know what to expect with the Luxman.  The PS Audio would be a greater unknown, but has the nicety of everything in one box: DAC, Preamp, amp and streamer.  The money outlay will be more for the Luxman, but not a huge difference.  It will be used rather than new.  Though, I would need a cheapy DAC just to accept the optical from the TV.  

Thoughts on this?  
jasonsim
jasonsim OP
111 posts
 
I lugged the Luxman 590axII downstairs...a back breaker...and will listen with it connected in the same way with the same cables as the Cambridge CXA80.  

From an initial listen, the Luxman is better - wider soundstage, more separation and air around instruments.  Punchier sound.
jasonsim OP
111 posts
 
Given all the input for Hegel, I think I will scratch them from my list.  Interesting product, but I really appreciate build quality.
lxgreen's avatar
lxgreen
66 posts
 
I was in similar situation with my second system and ended up getting the Marantz KI PM Ruby.  Made a big difference compared to an old Marantz integrated I was using. Got it for less than half off here on Agon . It doesn’t have digital inputs so that may be a problem for you. I use a streamer and dac fed into analog inputs 
pjb255livecom
28 posts
 
I would consider the Cambridge Audio 851A and 851N integrated and DAC if you're generally happy with the CX. I found significant improvements upgrading both amp and DAC to their Ajur line for reasonable money.
berner99
214 posts
 
Let me 2nd the Marantz KI PM Ruby.  For those of us who thought we'd never go near class D, you'd never know it. 
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