Class A integrated amp recommendations


Greetings 'goners after a prolonged absence from posting here but  eavesdropping on your conversations in the interim! I was hoping to get some feedback on your experiences with class A integrated amps. My audio journey thus far provides some context.

The core of my system, Sim Audio Moon I5 integrated, Joseph Audio RM7si Signature on 20” Sound Anchor stands has remained unchanged for about 20 years. Sources are Sim Audio Moon Nova and Rega Jupiter2000 CD players, Sim Audio Moon LP3 phono for my AR ES-1 turntable with Audio-Technica AT-VM95SH cartridge. Cables are Zu Audio.

Primary music interests are acoustic jazz, small scale classical, classical/crossover, some orchestral; but I can, and do, veer all over the map when a bout of nostalgia hits: classic and prog rock, punk, grunge, reggae, singer/songwriter. For me, it’s always been about the music. The stereo is only a tool. It is not the work. During that time I’ve not felt the need or urge to chase gear. I enjoy music.

Until about 6 months ago when I acquired a new turntable: Technics SL-1210GR with Audio Technica AT33PTG/II and Ortofon 2M Black cartridges. Then a PS Audio Stellar phono. And now, as I’m about to retire, I feel like a kid! Those Blue Note reissues have awakened some kind of Mr. Hyde in me that wants to try new stuff!

Hence this post. Your experiences with Class A integrateds feeding speakers similar to mine would be greatly appreciated. I'm intrigued by, but have not heard, gear from Pass Labs, Sugden, and Luxman. Of course, cost is a concern as the law of diminishing returns keeps me away from the insanity of uber-pricing.

Kind Regards

jlamb

I’ve heard the INT25 and Luxman 590, this may not be very helpful but I had a hard time telling them apart, I’d imagine the Sugden will probably sound similar as well. They are all excellent choices, I’d probably let cost and looks decide since there isn’t going to be a big difference in quality. 

Thanks gentlemen!

akg_ca I'm actually looking at a used Sugden Masterclass IA-4 on another site.

but also used Pass int-25 or int-60.

hdprentice great list for researching options, although features are not as much of a concern as I don't stream.

I've thought about trying tubes but many years ago I had a terrible experience at a dealer demo'ing B&W805s (Silver Anniversary Edition if memory serves) with Cary mono-blocks. What I recall was feeling that I didn't deserve to be punished like that! In fact, that demo convinced me to purchase the JAs unheard rather than the B&Ws which actually sounded quite nice at another dealer driven by Classe separates (circa mid 2000s equipment). 

But I agree that musicality and nuance is what I'm looking for, and that I already have that to a degree. But because I have no basis for comparison I don't know if my system has already gotten me most of the way there without spending uber-bucks.

That said I have looked at the Triode Corp TRV-A300 and the Fezz Audio Ceti because I'm curious about the famous 300b experience. Unfortunately not only these but most others I can't audition due to the lack of dealers near me.

soix I lust for the the new JA Perspectives even though I've never heard them, but even used they are beyond my reach. Because of lack of experience with other products/systems, I don't know what I'm missing as far as 'improvements and sound characteristics'. I suppose maybe just 'better' or more of the sound that I already have is what I'm looking for.

 

BTW used or new in the under $3500 range but might go to $5k if it really 'wows' me.

I should also add that my listening space is long and narrow, with low ceiling approximately 10'x30' with listening position about 12' from speakers. Most sessions are at 65 to 70 dBs with peaks to 80 dBs as measured by free app on my phone. I know, hardly an audiophile or instrument quality setup but it does serve as a reference point.

I hear ya on the Perspectives, but used Pulsars can be had for around $3500 that’d surely be a very nice upgrade, and you’ve already got the stands.  Anyway, you did yourself a big favor picking JAs over B&Ws IMHO, and I’m very familiar with both.  Here’s a very nice hybrid integrated with tubed preamp stage and MOSFET solid state output stage with plenty of power, is in your price range, and could yield a best of both worlds situation with your wonderful speakers.  I’d be shocked if this amp didn’t offer just more of everything, and you can also play with tubes to custom tailor the sound to your liking if you desire.  Just another option to chew on FWIW, and best of luck. 
https://www.ebay.com/itm/385758808281