BEGINNER'S GUIDE: INTEGRATED AMPLIFIERS FOR ALL. WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR & WHAT TO AVOID
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- Опубликовано: 5 ноя 2020
- Paul Rigby firstly looks at broad issues regarding buying an integrated amplifier then examines a range of integrated amplifiers from differing price points. Mainly aimed at the beginner, hopefully everyone can take something away from this one.
AMPLIFIER LINKS
IOTAVX - www.iotaenterprises.co.uk/col...
CAMBRIDGE - www.cambridgeaudio.com/gbr/en
AUDIOLAB - www.audiolab.co.uk/6000a/
CYRUS - www.cyrusaudio.com/products/c...
PURE SOUND - www.puresound.info/id12.html
ICON AUDIO - iconaudio.com/integrated-ampl...
AVID - www.avidhifi.com/#nogo11
NAIM - www.naimaudio.com/product/sup...
PARASOUND - parasound.com/products.php
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TIME STAMP: to fast forward to the hardware, click: ruclips.net/video/55nbLlaVfqM/видео.html
Hi Paul, I don't suppose you'd consider doing a review of vintage amps would you? I'm wanting to replace my Kenwood 660D, for something that has more high end audio and more connectors, but I'm having a devil of a job filling my requirements list. I would love to buy something new, (which saves a lot of hassle), but I use the tape monitor on a regular basis and modern amps don't seem to have that. I also have Wharfdale Diamond 9.1 bookshelf speakers, so need an amp that will run 6 ohm speakers at less than 100 watts. I have a iFi Zen Phono, so don't need a dedicated phono input. My TT is an SL1210Mk2, with fluid damper and Ortofon 2M Blue, which should be more than good enough until the cartridge needs replacing, at which point I may get something like a 2M Black. It's relatively easy enough to find amps that are of the spec that I need, but what do they actually sound like? Will they be an improvement in sound quality over the Kenwood? Will they colour the sound in a way that I don't like? Do they sound sterile or lack lows, mids or highs ? I just don't know, but wondered if you might? Also, finding good quality examples that are already in the UK is definitely a challenge too.
Started with a Pioneer A400, onto a Musical Fidelity B200, onto a Marantz 6003, moved to Roksan K3 and now am very very happy with a Naim SN3 it is simply stunning but each of these were wonderful and I enjoyed my time with them all.
A400, Rotel R970, Primare.....
I have to say I enjoy the Audiophile Man videos because when it comes down to recommended components, he never fails to list a majority things I have never heard of. I have an hour or more comet tail of googling after each video. I am in San Francisco, on the far edge of a continent away from his shopping zone. Some names I know, but most I do not. I drill down in some of the manufacturer's websites and come to the "not available in your area" disclaimer. A nice balance to Audiophile Man's disclaimer that he can only review products he has access to.
Three I've loved at the value end over the years: NAD 3240; Cambridge Audio A3; Cambridge Audio CXA81 (or indeed the AXR85 if you'll let a receiver slip in). All punch(ed)ing above their weight.
Agree. Nicely done. My understanding as an American from a Naim dealer near Chicago, at least one of their new integrated offerings will have an internal phono stage. My last Naim product was a Nait 3 (20 years ago) and did have the capability to "plug in" phono cards. It was after this model was discontinued that they stopped offering the ability to have a phono stage self contained in the unit itself.
My latest integrated amp is the Yamaha A-301S with 60x2 w/c. I paid $630 cdn $ years ago & I
love it. It has tone controls which I find useful.
Again an excellent review Paul. thanks for sharing this and your precious advices
Still using my Kenwood KA-8004 (1974 model). It plays my PC, Turntable, Cassette and CD. Never felt I needed an upgrade ever.
Speakers are the more important
@@Lesterandsons front end is.
That's the way to do it. When you love what your hearing, why change it??
I have the NAD C316BEEE. This famous unit defines the practice of putting the money into the priorities.
An entry level audiophile integrated amplifier, it has incredible detail and clarity. However, you have to excuse it's limitations. But you can become an instant audiophile if you can spend $400. I'm sure you know this amplifier already but I just wanted to pass on a thumbs up for it. Your right. Being from the states, we don't see the products you often review. I enjoy your channel because I get to see products I never see here.
Nicely done Sir. Lots of good info. Maybe once again at an even higher price might be interesting. Your efforts are appreciated.
What an excellent explanation- thanks, I’ve subscribed and look forward to more.
Only 1 cheap to suggest, but very happy myself with the sound through a variety of speakers, the old Cambridge Audio azur 540a. Good job, well done!
Thank you so much for this, it answered so many questions i’ve had!
Great video. Thank you.
I've got an Icon PP20 valve amp , it sounds beautiful. The imaging and sound stage with some little Icon speakers is astounding.
You and me both - I own one too as part of my reference review system.
Good read. I would urge you to add a section on receivers (tuner-amps) too. Although less popular, they would optimize the "footprint" issue in much the same way as integrateds do compared to true separates. I know many friends in big-city apartments who are fighting for every square inch of space. Looking at my own evolution from 1970s, it is true that I have reclaimed the space that used to be occupied by a cassette deck, but now I have a dvd player, a desktop computer, a laptop, an iPad, a laser printer, a pair of dedicated computer speakers, charging stations. I happen to have a separate tuner just because I bought it long ago and it still works, but if starting from scratch I would be greatly tempted to look at receivers.
Hi Anil - good idea. Although it might up an 'all in one' type of thing instead of strictly 'receivers'.
@@TheAudiophileManI would be happy to see a guide to the best 2-channel receivers however it can be accommodated. Thank you for considering the idea.
What a lovely explanation. Clear and concise , easy enough to understand. Just what I need. Thank you
I used an NAD 3155 for 36 years until it went up in smoke last week. Now I'm searching for its replacement.
Mine's a 3150. Off to get recapped at the moment.
I have the icon audio 20pp coupled with marantz 6006 cd , Cambridge audio dac and klipsh rp600m speakers , and I am happy with the bass
I'm in the market for an integrated amp at the moment.
I thought I had settled on one, till I saw reviews of its app (advanced features are app only - people were very unhappy with the quality of the app), and the fact that they had stopped supporting some of their earlier models on updated versions of the app.
I think one thing to consider if you plan to have ANY device for a long time is how can you control it? Apart from apps, is there a web interface? Can you get full functionality via either the remote, or on the device directly?
Great video thanks - you've given me a lot to consider!
1. Project Stereo Box RS (Miniscule footprint, tube buffered amplifier)
2. Cambridge Audio CXA81
3. Audiolab 6000A
We are talking about dreams:
No. 1: McIntosh MA5300 integrated amplifier
No. 2: Rega Aethos integrated amplifier
No. 3: Musical Fidelity m6si
I still use the same HiFi that I purchased in my teens in 1989: A Technics SU-V460 Integrated Amp / Technics SL-P350 CD Player / Technics SH-GE70 Graphic Equalizer / B&W Series 500 Speakers. Apart from replacing a tweeter last year, once removing the CD Player lid to clean the lens, and once removing the amplifier lid for a clean behind the volume knob to stop some crackling, my pride and joy has performed wonderfully. I guess I could replace it with something up to date, but to my ears I cannot fault it. I recently added a Chromecast Audio device so that I can listen to streamed music through it. It should also be said that the Graphics are only hooked up to get the dancing lights, so no loss of sound quality.
My system was completed about a year ago. I have no plans on changing anything because it just sounds so good. I suspect I'll be saying the same thing in the years to come.
My favourite amp I now own for 9 months is the Rega elicit-r with just an rega p8 tt at contour 20i speakers. It does not lack bass control after treating the small room with 4 hofa.de V2 bass traps.
Paul, you should look at Vincint Audio equipment, would love to hear a review of the full suite of equipment. I have the hybrid pre/amp and it is sweet!
I run a yamaha ax396 for my setup and I have to say it's the most detailed sounding amp I've heard in a long time
Nice video,
My three span more than a few years, these were all bedroom systems.
Kenwood KA3020 SE
Marantz PM7200
Nail Nait 5Si (current)
I have three separate rigs in two rooms.Luxman 120A, Scott 480A and Marantz PM 750DC.All vintage stuff whichI have had for ages.All well serviced and work superb.I would never replace them for anything with Bluetooth or any other modern gimmick whatever that may be.I have a music room with 78’s ,vinyl and CD’s, New Orleans R&B ( the real stuff),Hillbilly and Chicago Blues.Bought my first record 1958,Mr Berry and ’Johnny B Goode ’ and that is the way its been ever since!
Share the real stuff bro ! Good music must survive !
Very enjoyable and informative video. New subscriber. Lots of good recommendations in this video. Based on ones I have heard I will say that the Parasound Halo has good detail, smooth and beautiful vocals, and good power. However I found the sound of the Parasound Halo a little soft. For some this will be a good trait. The Cambridge Audio AXA35 is an excellent budget choice. NAD is very good as well but I may lean toward Cambridge these days.
For those who live in the USA for sure, possible elsewhere, the Schiit Raganrok 2 is an excellent integrated amp for the money if sound quality is main priority. Resolution is excellent along with dynamics and tone. It also makes an excellent headphone amp with the full wattage going to the balanced headphone jack!
These are a few that I'm particularly fond of:
Krell KAV-400 xi (currently using)
Outlaw Audio RR-2160
Willsenton R8
I have a Kanto Yu 4 powered speaker which has integrated everything you will ever need for a small bedroom.
Are those Kanto speakers pretty good? I’m ordering an AT lp 140x (because the Lp5x isn’t available), and want an easy setup that doesn’t take up too much space. Thanks!
@@stephanieclaire2569 late reply but yes! the kanto's are fantastic! I think they are best as near-field speakers for, say, computer desk speakers, but they also sound great in a smaller room. Used them as my first turntable speakers and I won't get rid of them. they're too good.
After a convincing Z review, I purchased a pair of Swan 300m. Now that the shock of quality of simply playing RUclips from my phone, I am ready for a next step up. This is exactly what I needed to see. Thank you!
Recently moved from a roksan kandy LIII to the abrahamsen v2.0up. It's a stunning amplifier for under £1000, and the roksan kandy was no slouch.
< £500 : Rega IO - compact size, well built and great value for money.
£500 - £1000 : Musical Fidelity MS2i - very solid build and packs a bigger impactful punch vs Audiolab 6000A in my opinion.
(With these two amplifiers above, they only provide analogue inputs which I believe is more future-proof as digital components upgrade more frequently.)
> £1000: Hegel H120 - very clean, neutral and honest sound that is un-fussy with speaker pairings. Would also recommend H90 / H95 but the H120 comes with balanced outputs and a much better remote control.
Marantz pm8006 how is this?
I’ve recently owned the following 3:
Audiolab 6000a. Sounds beautiful. Wide open soundstage, with some depth. Nice strong bass, natural sounding midrange...lots of detail. Airy open presentation...just beautiful. Very sweet onboard dac.
Iotavx sa3 pa3 stack. Some of the above, but not quite as nuanced...plenty of power though if you have a large room or like listening loud. Midrange can beam a little through certain speakers...wharfedale evo 4.4 in this instance.
Yamaha as1200...going up in price a little, and no onboard dac or Bluetooth. This is the sweet spot for me. Combines power with all of the magic of the audiolab 6000a, and quite a bit more magic. Has a beautifully balanced sound. Interesting bass...it’s prodigious where the recording has such bass, but very natural. The human voice is very natural. I can pick out exactly what instruments are playing, even in busy passages. Treble is so detailed, yet non fatiguing in prolonged listening. Wide open airy soundstage, with depth and clear imaging. I love this amp. Oh...and it has vu meters, and the build quality of a bank vault. Will keep this one for a long time!
Gary
Thanks for the insight, Gary.
Nicely written and presented article, and nice to see a few modles from icon, I have the stereo 40iii, and its been an eye opener.
My favourite used amp is much under the radar, the nad 3100 monitor series integrated. It has a little of the warmth of the original 3020 , but far more open sounding, and has to my ears, a better phono stage than the audiolab 8000Am and as much power as most will need
Oops, models, phone autocorrected when it shouldn't have done
Many thanks, John and glad to hear you like your Icon Audio gear. Interesting comments re. the 3100 which doesn't get much love so thanks for talking about the one
@@TheAudiophileMan the company i work for makes bare PCBs for several UK and European hifi manufacturers, including one that was in your video.
Its interesting to see some of the thinking that goes into the spec for the PCB. One UK company evaluated 6 different laminates (base material) on the sound, and specify either immersion tin or silver as the solderable finish. These 2 metals dissolve completely into the solder joint, as opposed to the more conventional nickel/gold finish, which adds an extra metal in the soldered joint. Also explains why icon hard wire their amps.
I like “all in one” amps. I like to have ARC, Phono, music apps and digital inputs and to control it all with just one remote. I daily drive an ONKYO TX-8270, but I also liked the Pioneer SX-S30 and dream of a NAD M10.
My almighty BEAST of a 32kg Yamaha DSP-Z9. Bypass tools inside so can be used as an analogue integrated amplifier with settings for direct analogue. Used with Moon 110lp V2 Phonostage from a Rega P6 in "PURE-DIRECT" mode is delightful!!!
Top three integrated amplifiers not in your list that I've owned ... the 1st was an NAD 3020 ... the 2nd was an NAD C715 with a built in CD player ... the 3rd and currently in use is a True Blue Box Cobalt DA with a fantastic built-in phono amplifier, analog line in, two Toslink and one USB input. 120 wpc in a half width chassis. Hope this helps.
Another great video, thanks Paul!
Some notable but hardly a complete list of Integrateds, that I feel offer great sound on par with amps at twice their price. Anthem STR - Hegel H120 - Rega Brio.
Very informative!! thank you for your easy explanation of the intergraded AMPs in the chains!!
First I wish you Happy New Year. Then I have one question for pairing amps with Wharfedale Evo 4.2. Those speakers are currently connected to the DIY build integrated tube amp based on an EL34 tubes and currently KT77 valves are in it and I think that this amp is a bit to week to drive those speakers. In fact I listen my music around 85 dB but to get that I almost have to turn power knob to the max. I have in a box CA Topaz AM10 and I want to ask is it powerful enough and what do you think do Evo 4.2 and Topaz AM10 match well together or do I have to turn my head to REGA Brio mod. 2017????
Thank you for your time and for your answer to this question of mine in advance....
My top 3, sansui au-717, love that vintage sound for their integrated and G series receivers, onkyo integra A-927, and the one I'm currently looking for, Yamaha DSP-A1. Notice I'm into the older integrated and that's because the power supplies were over built. I want to get my hand back on a Onkyo integra A-927(9) just to try to mate it with a pair of smaller Martin Logan's and boost the midrange.
Yamaha A-S501 / Denon PM-600NE / Emotiva TA-1 we're my top 3 options. I was looking for an integrated amplifier to pair with Elac Debut 6.2 at a reasonable price. I needed a phono amp and DAC integration as well with good power output for 6ohm speakers. Went with Yamaha and so far so good! Although I am now searching for a streamer preamp for wireless connection 😉
Thanks for your reviews. Any chance of you reviewing Rega amps - Brio, Elex-R, etc?
Hi, Arcam SA10, 30 or 40? They seem good to me. The SA10 I am about to purchase, it is very good in a good price range for me. Thanks for your vid. It is very good as always.
Hi I’ve always Loved Naim sound, but cheaper but now limited to nait 5si
A little cheaper Musical Fadility M3si
Lastly the Rega Brio
As to which I’d choose over all I’ll let you know when I do.
Another amp I’d put in the mix I’ve listened to is the Audiolab 6000a and I do like it sound but could do with listening together in Stafford uk
I have the Yamaha AS1100 and it’s very good. Start’s off a little cool and slightly bumped in the upper mid, but over time warms up and deepens in tone. Overall it’s a very accurate and detailed amp with decent power. It looks amazing too with illuminated needles in the front.
I have an 801 integrated and think it is a very underrated amplifier. Very enjoyable.
I'm thinking about the a-s1200 right now, hard to bite the price but I want it
I have the AS 1000 with the CD S1000. Enjoyable but i would like the one you bought with the outputneedles. Looks cool and fits well in the retro style. I also bought an old but nice Thorens TD 166 turntable and that goes so good in style with Yamaha - silver and Wood.
Had a used Marantz 1030 (used-under$99us). Loved it. Wish I kept it, but got taken in by the "power wars".
The 1030 and the 1060 are classics. Another great integrated amp from the 70's is the Harman Kardon A-402.
My current amp is the best I’ve ever owned, musical fidelity nuvista m3 super integrated. One I regret selling was my marantz pm66 ki . The Roksan caspian is great amp too
That's me as well, still have the PM66 KI but its got a fault. The M3si just has a great sound and I'm loving it.
I own the MF NuVista M3 as well mine has been fully upgraded from the factory and now puts out 305wpc all new upgraded caps etc. I have it paired with a MF TriVista 21 Dac and the sound is exceptional. If all the many amps I have owned this is the best sounding hands down and I have no desire for anything else.
I’m going to go vintage here. A friend of mine found a Sansui AU-717 from 1978 that has been serviced for $500. I listened and was amazed. I had forgotten how good Sansui was at that time. It is shockingly good.. I personally have a NAD 302 from the 90s. It sounded great for many years but requires service now. I guess my third would be a modern Marantz PMP model.
Excellent channel, keep up the great content!
The Denon PMA 600ne...nice one..it is a high current integrated amplifier at $450.00 US dollars.
We can get them from Amazon in the U.S.A. 45 watt per at 8 ohms
70 watts per channel via 4ohm. load. Not sure if you have Magnepan LRS ribbon speakers there but this amp will drive them because it is a high current amplifier etc
My top 3 are definitely these:
Music Fidelity M6si
Rotel RC1590
BlueSound PowerNode 2i
I inherited from my dad a Technics SE-A800S power amplifier, plus a Technics SU-C800 control amplifier, but two of the channels are now dead. What do the more knowledgeable among you suggest: should I take it somewhere to be fixed, or should I buy a new amplifier?
Hello, can anyone offer any opinions on the Denon PMA 600NE? Many thanks Paul and everyone! I am tossing it up between getting an old Marantz PM5005 or 6005 and the denon!
The Rega Brio amplifier is on my want list!!
I am going to purchase for my theatre room sony amplifier TA-AX5. What do you think about it. I am using to see dvd vcd
Thinking of exchanging Akai AM95 for roksan kandy k2.
I've had my NAD 302 for about 30 years now. It's the only original part of my hi fí set up left and still going strong. I had always indended to pair it with a Quad 6 power amp but that never came to be...yet. I reckon that's be a good pairing. Many have said that the 302 makes for a very able preamp and can punch above it's class easily. Don't know if that's still true now given its age.
My allmost 50 years old “Electrocompaniet 25 w” amplifier still does a damn good job. Maybe i should give it a make over and let it thrill for the next 50 years?
I loved that amp, I had second hand one back in the 90's simply beautiful. Electrocompaniet have the best transformers in any amplifier regardless of price.
Solid state mono blocks? Would be an interesting review
Hegel H90/H95
Possibly the best value at its price point. Can drive demanding speakers, has a great DAC, built in streamer and sounds really good.
RA 1572
Great features, lots of power, good DAC, affordable, neutral. I underestimated this amp and it continuously surprised me.
Hegel H390
I admit I'm bias, but this is my endgame amp. Fantastic imaging, timing, bass, top notch DAC, loads of power, supports Mqa. With the built in DAC and streamer this is also a great value.
Very interesting Paul thanks. I was pretty set on the Audiolab. But now wondering to splash the extra for the Cyrus which seems to have same functionality. Any thoughts on what the extra money would buy me?
I would say there's pros and cons on that one. More finesse from the Cyrus in the upper frequencies but better tonal balance from the Audiolab.
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks Paul. Either would be a big improvement on what i have now. Might stick with the Audiolab. Seems great for the money. And your review was very persuasive.
Consider whether you need the bells and whistles on the audiolab - if not maybe a more minimal amp would be better - more money on the pure amplifier and less 'stuff' in the box to degrade the sound. Rega, Musical Fidelity? Could also get a second hand Naim Nait....
Hey thanks Paul for another informative video. I have a AV system based on Klipsch R28F's and Onkyo RZ810 Avr. I have found out though that I am a 2 channel guy. I am thinking of getting a 2 channel Amp as a first step. Obviously after spending all this cash the budget is not great. Therefore was thinking of a Yamaha AS501. Any thoughts....?
Donovan - South Africa.
Please see my reply to your query on my website.
Hi Paul. Where on your website can I find the response please. Thanks
hi i'm a bit confused, ive ordered a rega planer plus 1 turn table, pre amp integrated, now looking for an amp, what should i be looking for, integrated or not? will the Cambridge topaz am10 do the job?
Paul your video is making me wish I could go to a store and listen to a tube amp and see what all the fuss is all about!! I've only listened to SS integrated (Hegel H80) Sold it recently and considering a used Kinki Studio integrated. Curious. what are your preamp and monoblocks you mentioned in the video?
Hi Hooman - I must do a room tour so you can see it :) For the record? Pre is an Aesthetix Calypso and the power is a pair of monoblocks from Icon Audio - the MB845 Mk.II. It's an all valve set up.
Never thought I would enjoy the videos about the technics. but i spent hole week looking all your videos. And now I ask you for an advice i have an NAD C326BEE with NAD cd player + Focal Chorus 706 speakers. I chose NAD c558 turntable and need an advise which phono preamp I should choose. Hope to get the reply
What's your budget?
How to connect a pre amp in an integrated amp. And will it be wise to do that?
Hi! from Barcelona. I have just discovered your very informative videos. I've recently purchased a pair of KEF R5 (not new Meta) that I run with my 35 year old ONKYO Integra 8700. It sounds well for me, detailed, good soundstage, etc. But I wonder if I can pair better them with a "modern" amplifier (valve or solid state) my maximum budget is 2000€ . My other components are a Rega RP1 performance pack, Marantz CD50, and Cambridge AXN10 streamer; so I need only connectivity for these items. Suggestions appreciated. Thank you
Curious how you guys feel about professional amps like crown, shure, qsc? Perhaps you might say rugged as heck but not for an audifile? Serious question.
Audiolab 6000a, Naim nait xs3, keces e40
I’m considering purchasing a Cambridge amp for my quality budget setup, but I’m having a difficult time choosing between the AXA25 & AXA35 models. I am a vinyl enthusiast, so I’m leaning towards the AXA35 due to the phono stage inclusion. Any advice would be appreciated!
I would lean towards the 35 too because it offers more power and confidence to the overall sound presentation from it's extra Watts. The internal phono amp is ideal for a starter. A good upgrade, when you can, is an external model. No rush though.
Great video.
I am looking for help.I want to upgrade my system , my speaker chooses ate polk xt20 or I may spleg and get the Polk r100 or the r 200.
Can you recommend an amp for both sets of speakers.
I live in Canada and really just want to use dvd and plug in my phone to stream audio.
Under $1000.00 cd would be good
thanks for your help.
Coda Unison integerated amp. Mine is over 20 yrs. old still something I choose to keep. Compared to the ones made today. While I am needing to replace the "Caps" that blew out and the unit needs to go to the factory. But the Coda factory is great to work with and priced better than any other option for the given quality.
Luxman L-11, Luxman L-4 and Marantz 2015 receiver. When professionaly refreshed and serviced they usually excels over most of today produced stuff.
Thanks for the great info. I would add just one product, the Vista Spark. Under $500 US this baby is per genius without any bells and whistles.
Indeed...$350.00
Please let us know more about Linn and CH Precision and DarTZeel if possible
Hi Paul does the Audiolab 600OA have tone control adjustment. Thank you for your help.
Afraid not, no.
Currently using my venerable Arcam Alpha 5 and still going strong. Will probably be looking for an upgrade soon though.
Indeed! Alpha 6 still in use since new. Time for an upgrade here too. What direction are you thinking after enjoying the Arcam?
@@superd222tube I just got myself the Elex-R. Loving it!
@@marklong982 Congrats! Very nice choice!
Thank you for your reply. SD.
Is the Cyrus One going to perform at a similar level as the Audiolab 6000a? I like the way the 6000a presented the mids & tightly controlled the bass (but I use an external DAC). I need a small amp for my desk. I've owned the 6000a and the Marantz PM8006, happy with the level of sound quality on both but they are too big. Any advice would be appreciated! (the other amp I'm looking at is the Nuprime IDA-8).
I'm afraid I have yet to test that Nuprime. If you're looking for a half-width unit, the Cyrus would fit well.
Hi, Paul. After taking tons of advice, including yours, I have decided to buy an Audiolab 6000A amplifier (for a thousand reasons). Now, this unit can be used on its own as an integrated amplifier but can also be used as a stand-alone pre-amp or power amp. I shall use it, initially, as an integrated unit; however, in the future I shall upgrade its use. What would you recommend as the best option for me: to use it as a pre-amp with another power amp; or to use it as a power amp with another pre-amp? I value your advice. Thanks.
Hi Alan - neither. I would use the correct tools for the job because it'll never sound as good as a proper Pre/Power combo. I would only recommend the above if its a quick stepping stone to a graduated upgrade path too a dedicate pre/power duo.
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks, Paul. My upgrade path will be slow and steady. The anticipation is sometimes as big a thrill as the reality.
Dayens Menueto is my all time favorite. Small footprint not very feature rich but the sound is glorious for under $1000usd
I'm just about to spend 800 pounds approx on an amp, record player and speakers. I would like the Amp to have Bluetooth if possible but not essential. Would love to see chat's recommendations. Thanks.
My first choice would be the Rotel RA 10, excellent sound and value for money, next up would be the stunning Rega Elex - R a no nonsense amp with just enough inputs. Finally the Roksan Caspian M2. again sound quailty to the fore.
Great choices, Ken. Many thanks.
Hi Paul what do you think of the Arcam SA20 and Cyrus One compared to the Audiolab 6000A? Do they offer a better sound?
Both are excellent amps. I like the One over the SA20 but the 6000A is superior to both - at least in my ears. Of course, I always recommend a demo if possible because your ears might disagree.
@@TheAudiophileMan thanks for your reply. Great to see your channel getting so popular.
What one to buy use the turntable 140 rock so which would be a great buy. All in one amplifier.
Just wondering if there are any opinions good or not so good on the Sugden A21.. driving a set of Lintons.. Regards from Ireland - Paul Mc
hi about lepy lp 2020a i plugged in correctly turning the volume up i heard a buzzing sound in speakers and the volume kept going off then on when i increased the volume from the amp now one of my speakers has stopped working what caused this before i used the amp i could turn the volume up on the speaker all the way and it was clear sound also could it have been the underpowered power supply that it came with some people recommend a 6amp power supply. i also used presonus eris e4.5 studio monitors 75w with the amp also is using a amplifier with studio monitors dangerous because the studio monitor has a built in amplifier. and the amp is 20w and the speakers are 75w could it be because the speakers are more powerful.
SUGDEN A21SE Signature Pure Class A | Pass Lab INT-25 Class A | Accuphase E-800 Class A | ModWright KWH 225i | Vinnie Rossie L2iSE | Ensemble Audio FUOCO . These are my favorites and I own the first one. It sounds marvelous.
I love the Sugden, A21SE, one of those amps that’s been around forever and yet has something unique, brilliant amp my only caveat would be it’s so speaker dependent.
just found your videos and I am finding them ultra useful. if you could breakdown percentage wise what you should spend on each part of a Hi-fi system, what would you recommend. I don't want to over spend on a turntable if the amp I use is useless likewise with the speakers, hope that makes sense? for example if I have a budget of £1000 how much of that should i spend on a record player, how much on speakers, how much on an amp. If I have a record player worth £500, what should i spend on an amp etc.....
There's debate on this subject but I firmly believe in the importance of the source. After all, the amp and speakers can only deal with the info given to them by the source. If the latter messes up, the amp and speakers have no chance. So 50% on the turntable, 25% each for the rest. Then you can upgrade later to even things up if you have to.
Hi there! What about the Cambridge Audio CXA 81? Is it not a better sounding amp than the Cyrus One and Audiolab 6000A ? Im confused! I tough will be in your list around £1000 pounds! Let me know what do you think? Thanks!
Don't be confused, that's what your suggestions are all about, to fill in the gaps. The list I offer is more of an awareness piece, to show beginners especially what's out there. It's also there to offer variety in price, facilities, footprint (as in the Cyrus), etc. The 81 is excellent.
I need advice, I have all Sonos system except I refuse to pay 650 for the newest amp….can’t use gen 1 amp…. which I need with my newest equipment. Is there an alternative to Sonos amp? I need to drive non sonos /Polk/….in ceiling rear speakers at 50 W to complete my surround music. I was looking at Pyle…. Just need some type of smaller form factor app with Earc or arc..hdmi input
With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Can anyone assist me?
Hi Paul. Love your reviews. Returning to the UK with a pair of Elac Unifi 2.0's and an Audioengine B1 Blutooth DAC. I use the Audioengine to stream music from my phone. I want to purchase an amplifier to complement this set up. I Plan to connect the TV to the amplifier and maybe some other digital sources so optical and coaxial inputs would be important. My budget would be around £500. Any suggestions ? Love your L'pool accent. Love L'pool too. John.
My top 3 that I am currently trying to decide between: 1. Yamaha A-S1200, 2. Musical Fidelity M5si, 3. Parasound Halo Hint 6
I have a Harman & Kardon AP-2500 (signature series) pre-amp that I use for my record player, but it is connected to a regular integrated amp (Pioneer vsx-531). Does this make my pre-amp obsolete? The signal still gets through the pre-amp of Pioneer so i cannot hear the sound of the Harman & Kardon pre-amp? I'm trying to get more knowledge in the audio world but it is all very broad and difficult to understand. If this is correct, I'm in the market for a power amp. Any reccomendation for one WITH a sub woofer out?
Firstly - if you're enjoying the sound of your music with this hifi chain then you're already a winner and the word 'obsolete' shouldn't emerge from your lips at any time. Enjoying your music is the main thing here. On the other hand, if you feel unhappy with the sound of your hifi then sure, you could tweak and upgrade to improve matters. Particular recommendations depend on your budget. Broadly speaking? Simplifying the signal path should improve the sound. So a turntable going through an integrated amp and then to a pair of speakers would be my preference. Again, you can enhance the sound even from that point but the latter chain would be a basic starting point.
I like the Musical Fidelity M2si and M3si.
Quad Vena II? Looks nice, but I am not familiar with the details.I read good things about this, and it looks very nice.
Just got a Kenwood KA 5010 for £45. Had the nice Yamaha shown in the video and various other Cam Audio, NAD etc. Also had some expensive actives. The Kenwood does the business - it could be the fact the Kenwood cost nothing or the repaired and upgraded Philips cd753 I'm using but the Kenny tops them all surprisingly.
just picked up a nad c326bee for 150 euro for my 2nd system in the basement. I already have it's bigger brother the c356bee. Both have fantastic sound for the money. Lots of really low distortion power and great bass and clear highs. What I mainly like though is the headphone socket which is amazing for an integrated. Btw...tone controls ! perfect for those with less than perfect room acoustics or those who like to listen to recordings which are not so well well recorded !..
Hi, how would you characterize the sound of 356? sweet sound, neutral, or bright.Ι like amps with smooth mids and highs and strong bass (laid back sound).Don't like harsh mids and highs (fatigue in 10 min.)Some say that old Nad had warm sound but not today.
@@andreassouth1523 I would say that it is pretty smooth and neutral but not the last word in transparency. But the weird thing is that the c326bee is in some ways better and for a lot less money. The 356 is better built (plastic vs metal front) but if you are just looking for sound quality there 326 is better and has a circuit design which is at least based on the 3020 of old. In fact I would go as far as to say that you could compare the 326 to much more expensive amps. Obviously it is limited in power though.
@@MrSouzy Thank's for the respond.Looking for amp for a second hi fi set up and checking my options. My first set up has yamaha a-s701 amp with wharfedales 225's.I don't search for the cleanest amp but for a smooth sounding amp.Maybe will play with floorstanding speakers.
Lucky you, here in Italy I cannot find a 326bee for less than 270/300 euros which is crazy. I also shown to the sellers the sold auction on eBay and they still did not want to reduce the price. On the used market in Italy it seems that nad is a rare artisanal piece, don't ask me why. But this is causing me issues for building s first cheap system.
@@paolosoddu9642 you need to check the normal classifieds too. Ebay is sometimes inflated.