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

Audio Hungary A- 20 amp. Best around for the $$$ . Get one used at a reasonable price .

Pass INT-25.  Best sound for the money and perfect for higher sensitivity speakers. 

More dynamic and transparent than the Luxman models.

When it came time to replace my 25 year old CJ PV 5 & Solid state amp combo a few years back, I lusted after an Ayre EX-8. As my wife let me know that was out of the question, I settled on a Luxman L-550AXII.

ive continue to be quite happy with the choice. It has a bit of the richness and depth I associate with tubes, without the loss of resolution. It’s a polar opposite of the plastic 2d sound of class d. the build is superb. Every day, after listening to much more expensive gear at work. I go home and enjoy the Luxman. At the time, I considered the 590ax II, but the president of Luxman America convinced me the power of the 550 was more than adequate for my 91db speakers. As I’ve heard it driving much more difficult loads, I do not doubt it would be good enough for the Joseph’s. It has far more current capability than the Pass, for example. While it doesn’t match the Ayre for detail, at 60% of the price, it is always enjoyable. The phono section is quite good, as a bonus!