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Integrated Help

I'm looking into purchasing a new integrated amp. Right now I've got a Rotel 1062 with Infinity 3500 (4 ohm) speakers. Source is a VPI Scout/10x5 with EAR 834P. I listen to mostly rock--not classic, more punk, new wave, indie, etc.

I like the sound/idea of tubes, but I'm worried about warm up time. I usually only have an hour or two a day to listen to the stereo, so letting tubes warm up for an hour or something is not convenient. Or should I not be concerned about this?

Second, does anyone have any integrated recommendations in the $1500 range used?

I should also say that I don't plan on keeping these speakers forever, though they do sound great. I would hope to upgrade in the next year or so, but I'd like to do the amp first.
sinisterporpoise68
superwolf
15 posts
 
I had the 1062, and upgraded to Rogue Cronus. I am pleased.
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
I'll take flak for this even though I am no longer associated with LSA Group;

The LSA Integrated is REALLY GOOD for the money...especially used!
sinisterporpoise68 OP
63 posts
 
Thanks for all these responses. I will look into the Musical Fidelity amps since they come so highly recommended. Can anyone tell me what the difference is between the A308 and the A5? Also, are there any good hybrid integrateds out there? I know Blue Circle makes a couple. Maybe that would give me the warmth of tubes I'm looking for with solid state power...
jeffo19
25 posts
 
Unison Unico are very nice hybrid amps. I use it for mostly Jazz, but occasional rock. I got tired of the ear fatigue with my Rotel seperates, and so decided on a Tube hybrid. You can usually find an 80W version here for under a grand. Do a search on them.
dwhitt
347 posts
 
jolida 1501 used,,,,500 to 600 dollars...also a good contact is underwoodhif.com, he usually has them on demo or you can find plenty on sale on gon, i owned one with vandersteen speakers and it rocked.....100watts tube pre amp, hybrid, remote and looks goods , weighs like a tank and sounds great...no brainer.....hybrid...i also like the unison....either one is good, but the jolida is more beefy where the unison is a little more detailed, jolida rocks in hybrid for rock...
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