Considering Integrated amps?

[Mechnutt]

I am giving serious consideration to selling off my separate preamp and amp and going with an Integrated Amp for downsizing. I can't believe I am even contemplating it at this point. I thought maybe in 7-10 years I might.

I am looking for opinions on a few. So far the ones that I am considering are the Luxman L-507uXII new, Mac MA8000 used, Pass Int-60, Moon 340i D3PX to name a few. I prefer a little bit of warmth along with a liquid midrange and at least 100 wpc with the exception being the Pass. Maybe a used Devialet. Budget will be $7-8K. Bear in mind I have not heard any of these as there are no dealers here in the twin cities except for Mac.

[Mike]

I am giving serious consideration to selling off my separate preamp and amp and going with an Integrated Amp for downsizing. I can't believe I am even contemplating it at this point. I thought maybe in 7-10 years I might.

I am looking for opinions on a few. So far the ones that I am considering are the Luxman L-507uXII new, Mac MA8000 used, Pass Int-60, Moon 340i D3PX to name a few. I prefer a little bit of warmth along with a liquid midrange and at least 100 wpc with the exception being the Pass. Maybe a used Devialet. Budget will be $7-8K. Bear in mind I have not heard any of these as there are no dealers here in the twin cities except for Mac.

VAC 170iQ


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[Jack]

Larry

Dan's supposed to be coming out with a Hybrid Integrated in the near future so you might want to contact him through AC and see what the time table is. The amp section will be from the 150SE and a 6922 based front end.

[Paul]

Luxman is good choice and Accuphase or Sudgen if you’re speakers are high efficient enough.

[Shadowfax]

I know they fell out of favor, but I really like the Pathos Integrated. Bummer that the Vinnie Rossie Lio is not enough power and the L2s are way out of price range.

I will follow this thread Larry.

[Mechnutt]

Thanks for the recommendations. I am about 1 year away from this as I want to try and listen to as many as possible. I will hit up a couple of audio shows. Mike, what is the price of the Vac? I certainly would love to have a high powered tube integrated. How does it compare to the Luxman SS sound?

[Kingrex]

You know there's companies like techniques and Yamaha who might include features such as DAC and phono stages in their Integrate. I was considering this a while ago myself. All the good ones seem to run about $10,000. And talking with the Dealer's I did here one consistent comment, you don't get as much control & power from a integrated unit as from a separate amplifier.

If I were to start heading down that road again, I would look for a good integrated front end piece containing a phono stage DAC and probably streamer as well as volume attenuation. I would then look for a stand-alone amplifier. I know Mojo audio whom I'm partial to is developing a new preamp and integrated digital server. I think his dac will still be stand alone. If I remember correctly, luxman will allow you to Output to a separate amplifier. VAC definitely has that feature too. But then again, you paid for a lot of amplification parts in that unit and added a whole bunch of weight.

I haven't been looking much lately but if you find something along the lines I was talking please post and let me know.

[Dguitarnut]

The Vac Iq170 is awesome! Brought it home from Mikes shop one day and now I have tube fever! Great relaxed easy to live with sound and and big stage.
At it’s price and performance it’s a bargain.

[Mr Peabody]

I, wonder how the synergy would be with both Luxman DAC and amp. You'd expect pretty good.

I've heard some Moon, in my opinion they are what I call dry, it's a house sound for them, it's that type of sound where the music seems not to go anywhere, like being played in a damped room.

I personally like Devialet a lot. I can't say if the sound is warm enough to your taste. I'd say they were in the neutral zone, in a good way though. Definitely, not leaning lush like Pass, so if staying with that type of sound........

Sounds like we may be seeing you at Axpona.

[Mechnutt]

You know there's companies like techniques and Yamaha who might include features such as DAC and phono stages in their Integrate. I was considering this a while ago myself. All the good ones seem to run about $10,000. And talking with the Dealer's I did here one consistent comment, you don't get as much control & power from a integrated unit as from a separate amplifier.

If I were to start heading down that road again, I would look for a good integrated front end piece containing a phono stage DAC and probably streamer as well as volume attenuation. I would then look for a stand-alone amplifier. I know Mojo audio whom I'm partial to is developing a new preamp and integrated digital server. I think his dac will still be stand alone. If I remember correctly, luxman will allow you to Output to a separate amplifier. VAC definitely has that feature too. But then again, you paid for a lot of amplification parts in that unit and added a whole bunch of weight.

I haven't been looking much lately but if you find something along the lines I was talking please post and let me know.

I know what I would be giving up in separates and have considered upgrading to a new version of my Pass X250 and selling it and my BAT pre, replacing it with a Don Sachs or Vinnie Rossi tube pre. But we will probably be moving in 3-5 years (when I retire) and to a smaller home. I don't feel like lugging 150+ pounds of amp and preamp around. My wife keeps hinting about me to down size my system. I already replaced my Magnepans with PSB T3's. As far as a DAC, I have a Luxman DA-06 which I will probably keep a while longer especially if I buy a Luxman Integrated even though it is getting a little long in the tooth.

I have also considered going with a new tube pre and going with a Class D or hybrid Class D amp or mono's since they tend to weigh less than 15-20 pounds.

The VAC has peaked my interest as I would not mind keeping tubes in my system.

[wisnon]

I am giving serious consideration to selling off my separate preamp and amp and going with an Integrated Amp for downsizing. I can't believe I am even contemplating it at this point. I thought maybe in 7-10 years I might.

I am looking for opinions on a few. So far the ones that I am considering are the Luxman L-507uXII new, Mac MA8000 used, Pass Int-60, Moon 340i D3PX to name a few. I prefer a little bit of warmth along with a liquid midrange and at least 100 wpc with the exception being the Pass. Maybe a used Devialet. Budget will be $7-8K. Bear in mind I have not heard any of these as there are no dealers here in the twin cities except for Mac.

Dartzell LHC208...200wpc into 8 ohms with built in Ethernet Dac (NAS only needed, with tablet controller). New its $13K.
Extremely good.

[Mr Peabody]

Not that it would fit Larry, I was out on a certain audio store website and noticed Lampizator has an Amber amp. If this has been around I didn't know about it.

This looks like a cool little amp, 12x2 watts of SET power with a built-in Amber DAC. Also, auto-bias.

[Shadowfax]

Lampi is also about to release this int, but I think the guy said it would be in the 12-16K range. 300wpc

[GSOphile]

If interested in Luxman, I'd consider stretching a bit for the L-509X.

[Dizzie]

I have no experience with this integrated. I am just adding it to the list to make your decision "easier".


http://www.aesthetix.net/mimas.php

[Mechnutt]

Lots of great suggestions. I am going to make a list and see what I can hear at audio shows at Axpona and Denver in 2019. Mike I will be in Bonita Springs FL next April for a conference. Too bad Sarasota is over 100 miles away or I would stop by for a listen at your store.

[Kingrex]

Dartzell LHC208...200wpc into 8 ohms with built in Ethernet Dac (NAS only needed, with tablet controller). New its $13K.
Extremely good.

Dartzeel is always an interesting product. It appears this unit does not have a phono stage. That would be an awesome addition. It also doesn't talk about whether it can be accessed through a tablet. I'm not even sure where it's getting the digital files from. Whether it's your nass, Tidal, Qobuz? I didn't see much on their website.

[KeithR]

deleted

[KeithR]

For SS, I've had many of the brands you've listed in integrated form but Dartzeel was by far the best. However, the CTH will be over your budget. I would therefore try the Ayre AX-5 Twenty which used can be had for a song.

For tube, the Vac 170 seems like a decent bet as your speakers aren't terribly tough to drive at 89dbs and don't huge phase swings.

[wisnon]

Lots of great suggestions. I am going to make a list and see what I can hear at audio shows at Axpona and Denver in 2019. Mike I will be in Bonita Springs FL next April for a conference. Too bad Sarasota is over 100 miles away or I would stop by for a listen at your store.

Suncoast is a fun stop!

[wisnon]

Dartzeel is always an interesting product. It appears this unit does not have a phono stage. That would be an awesome addition. It also doesn't talk about whether it can be accessed through a tablet. I'm not even sure where it's getting the digital files from. Whether it's your nass, Tidal, Qobuz? I didn't see much on their website.

I have listened to it several times. It IS run by a Tablet and reads straight from the NAS. Pretty sure it can do all those streaming services.

[wisnon]

For SS, I've had many of the brands you've listed in integrated form but Dartzeel was by far the best. However, the CTH will be over your budget. I would therefore try the Ayre AX-5 Twenty which used can be had for a song.

For tube, the Vac 170 seems like a decent bet as your speakers aren't terribly tough to drive at 89dbs and don't huge phase swings.

That is why I didn't say the CTH, rather the "Little Heaven Corner" LHC208 Integrated amp/Ethernet Dac.

[kzhtoo]

You should not make a decision on an integrated amp without considering Gryphon Diablo 300.

[KeithR]

Thatb is why I didn't say the CTH, rather the "Little Heaven Corner" LHC208 Integrated amp/Ethernet Dac.

Its a nice product, but since he has an analog rig too didn't mention it.

[wisnon]

I got you now Keith...understood.

[Kuoppis]

I do have the INT-60 and love it, really great amp. Will be pairing it with my brand new Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary speakers when I get to the summerhouse next time around x-mas.

If you like the Pass sound, the INT-60 is a fantastic performer.


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[wisnon]

Job

http://jobsys.com/6moonsJobInt.pdf

[joeinid]

Job

http://jobsys.com/6moonsJobInt.pdf

If your speakers are not too difficult a load, I absolutely love Job. My Job INTegrated is wonderful.

[Mike]

You know, this NAIM Uniti Nova I have in the store is a terrific all-in-one Integrated. It is a Roon endpoint too. Connect speakers and an Ethernet cable and go!

I love it’s display screen too.




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[joeinid]

Naim!!!!

[Mechnutt]

I would not mind another Pass amp. I love the Pass sound but I am open minded and hope I can hear many of these amps. The Sigma VAC 170 has my interested peaked but I would have to get a great deal on a used one since my budget is will be $8K. Just bought a new car and we just started a full remodel of the master bath that my wife has been waiting for, for quite a long time.

[geodiak]

Jadis I88 . 90 watts in pure class A !
It drives my Sonus Faber Amati Aniversario...

[joeinid]

Welcome to the forum, thank you for joining.

[JGlacken]

You may want to take a look at the McIntosh MA252 hybrid integrated. I only play digital but is does have a phono input as well. I have had one for about 6 weeks and it pairs nicely with my Reference 3a Reflectors. Very good value proposition in my book.

[Mechnutt]

You may want to take a look at the McIntosh MA252 hybrid integrated. I only play digital but is does have a phono input as well. I have had one for about 6 weeks and it pairs nicely with my Reference 3a Reflectors. Very good value proposition in my book.

It looks like a nice unit but I am wanting something in the $8K range. I have a year to hear a lot of gear and decide. Maybe my budget will be higher by then.

[JGlacken]

I have a beautiful Burmester 051 integrated for sale right now.
BTW, I am sure you know that the cost does not always make a better sound system.

[Jack]

Larry

As you are a BAT fan have you looked at their hybrid integrated? In fact there is a used one in Wisconsin now for a good price.

[Mechnutt]

Larry

As you are a BAT fan have you looked at their hybrid integrated? In fact there is a used one in Wisconsin now for a good price.

Jack, when I am ready to buy, I will surely consider the BAT.

[wisnon]

Larry, 1 more point.

I forgot that I posted this back in April. Worth monitoring.

I am on a couple days off and finally took the chance to swing by Goldmund's "new" HQ (its now 2 years old).

While there I chatted for 15 mins with my usual contacts. Tore is in charge of the Integrated and I posed him your questions.Note I have never heard old or new Integrated and could not even get a loaner as they are flying off the shelves. (I also did a bit of lobbying for the 250 monoblocs and while they did not commit, in 2019 they are thinking of new products to refresh the JOB line. Perhaps a dual mono Integrated with Job 250 type power in a big chassis? Who knows?

Anyway, cutting to the chase, the main updates to the new Integrated are the straight analog pass thru design (purist approach, so Analog domain improved), no more conversion to digital as an intermediary. Indeed the whole redesign of the Integrated is to updated USB/DSD handing which is now 256x capable and many of the other changes are as a result of that. Overall easier to handle with possibly slightly better SQ.

[Nikhil]

While there I chatted for 15 mins with my usual contacts. Tore is in charge of the Integrated and I posed him your questions.Note I have never heard old or new Integrated and could not even get a loaner as they are flying off the shelves. (I also did a bit of lobbying for the 250 monoblocs and while they did not commit, in 2019 they are thinking of new products to refresh the JOB line. Perhaps a dual mono Integrated with Job 250 type power in a big chassis? Who knows?

Thanks for the info Norman! A 200W Integrated was my suggestion when they had asked for feedback on their Facebook page (for their new product development). Great to see that they are considering going with it!

[PierreB]

If you can, take a look at the Simaudio Evolution 600i v2.
I have one and it’s a great integrated.

[imprezap2]

I am really enjoying my Aavik U-300, makes my Magico V3's sing.
U-150 is less expensive and comes vey close.

[Swisstrips]

- You know and like Pass well, don't fight it => Int250 all done or from Reno black Friday special $8700
- Diablo 300
- Lux

Lots to choose from, have fun and take your time.

Or to hell with that and stick with some good separates

[Mechnutt]

- You know and like Pass well, don't fight it => Int250 all done or from Reno black Friday special $8700
- Diablo 300
- Lux

Lots to choose from, have fun and take your time.

Or to hell with that and stick with some good separates

Don't tempt me Steve, my bathroom remodel is approaching $30K, have to keep the wife happy.

[Kingrex]

Unlike audio gear, your bath will probably be worth $30K or more when you move.

Don't tempt me Steve, my bathroom remodel is approaching $30K, have to keep the wife happy.

[Swisstrips]

Don't tempt me Steve, my bathroom remodel is approaching $30K, have to keep the wife happy.

Ouch. You could slip some “miscellaneous” items into the remodel budget As mentioned, a remodel will appreciate so win win


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[kzhtoo]

Ouch. You could slip some “miscellaneous” items into the remodel budget As mentioned, a remodel will appreciate so win win


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Genius lol

[dlb2]

- You know and like Pass well, don't fight it => Int250 all done or from Reno black Friday special $8700
- Diablo 300
- Lux

Lots to choose from, have fun and take your time.

Or to hell with that and stick with some good separates

Isn't Mike a Pass dealer? You know Mike right? The guy that runs this forum pretty much on his own dime for everyone here. I would think a guy would give him a call first before gong elsewhere. Makes sense to me. Just sayin".

[Swisstrips]

Isn't Mike a Pass dealer? You know Mike right? The guy that runs this forum pretty much on his own dime for everyone here. I would think a guy would give him a call first before gong elsewhere. Makes sense to me. Just sayin".

I was just being ahem funny, don’t read too much into it. Also a new one was over his $8k budget so used seemed relevant. Just sayin.


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[steve59]

Did I mention the Hegel H590? nice dac, plenty of power, natural lively sound. I probably did.