Recommendation for integrated amplifier for Paradigm Studio 20s v.5


Hi All,

My last kid moved out so I'm an empty nester with an extra 10'x16' room that is becoming my office/recording studio.  I would also like to set up a nice music listening area.  I like 70s progressive rock, 60s jazz, and classical. 

I have a pair of Paradigm Studio 20s (version 5), but nothing else.  I heard them thought a Rotel 1520 many years ago and liked the sound.  I recently went to a local audio dealer and tried a Marantz Model 30 and a Moon.  I preferred the detail of the Moon.  However, both were above my budget, which would be $1,000-$2,000 max.  I think I need to go used, but would like some recommendations.  Thanks!!

encinitastubes

This Hegel H120 would be a great choice and also includes a very good DAC in case you want to start streaming. It’s listed at $2250 but that seems a little high and I’d think you could get it for $2000, but even if not it might be worth a stretch.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisb1da1-hegel-h120-solid-state

On the lower end of your price range the Nuprime IDA-8 is also a nice amp and also comes with a decent DAC onboard Can be had new for $1250 or used from a very reputable seller for $699.

https://tmraudio.com/components/integrated-amplifiers/nuprime-ida-8-stereo-integrated-amplifier-ida8-dac-usb-remote/

Last, and if you might be interested in a little tube magic this Unison Unico Primo has a tube input stage and solid state output, and at $1950 it’s right at the top of your price range but doesn’t include a DAC.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/364023481523

Hope this helps, and best of luck.

You may want to look into a Belles Aria Integrated.  New, its slightly higher ($2495) than your budget....but should be worth exploring.

Sheese!  I have no idea why the Font ended up so large!  Not yelling or anything......:)

There’s a Musical Fidelity A1008 for sale for $1000. Great integrated. Was 6k 10-12 years ago. 

Consider the Vincent SV-500 integrated.  You can swap out the preamp tubes as you like although the stock tubes are very good.  Well within budget, very high value, well built, looks good to boot.  But more importantly it sounds good.  I love high value gear like this.  Very smooth and dimensional, more organic (non-sterile) than other gear in this price range.