2. amps-preamps
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Looking for integrated solid state amp for daily usage

I love the sound of my tube amps, but I need an amp powered on all day every day (like 16 hours per day) for my nearfield desktop setup with JBL 4309 speakers (using directstream mk1 dac).

I have tried a Schiit Aegir and a Schiit Ragnarok, but didn’t like either compared to my cheap tube amp and expensive tube amp. They just seemed boring and dead to me.

So I’m looking for suggestions on a beautiful sounding solid state integrated amp that sounds big and engaging as much like a tube amp as possible, if one even exists. I don’t want a tube preamp with a solid state amp.

I listen to a lot of music types from classical to jazz to classic rock.

I’d like to keep the price under $3k if possible, used is great. I’ve heard Accuphase and Luxman are really good, but price seems to be more than $5k for those.

retroactiv
burtlake
42 posts
 

Belles Aria - various versions in your price range

vthokie83
647 posts
 

Hegel H190. New ones can be found for about $2,800 if you search a bit (I found it at 2 sites), down from $3,900. Built in streamer and DAC (that is pretty good), 2 x 150 WPC, RCA and XLR analog inputs, good number of digital inputs, very highly regarded affordable integrated.....check out the hundreds of positive reviews.

noodlyarm
90 posts
 

I own both the NAD Masters M33 and the Krell K300i.   Both are excellent and well built.   The NAD is a bit more friendly as it also has a Blue-OS streamer built-in whereas the Krell requires an external streamer (Innuos Mini Mk3).   Sonically the Krell is magic and sounds to me a lot like a tube amp, warm, musical, and bass control that is super tight and deep.   I don’t think you could go wrong either way.

panzrwagn's avatar
panzrwagn
443 posts
 

Marantz Model 40 if you want an all-in-one, do anything streaming amp. If you want to keep it strictly analog, the Model 30. Both of these are high end Marantz offerings, and it shows on both close examination of their build and close listening. The Marantz smooth, clear, and slightly warm sound is alive and well, and will pair nicely with your JBL 4309s, especially in a nearfield application. 

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
1,999 posts
 

According to a review of the naim 5si, it’s said that it pairs well with the 4309’s. It’s form factor is a benefit, being that it is slim. Tube like, yea, no....

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