The 18 Greatest Bargains in High-End Audio (TAS 197)

12. Simaudio Moon i-1 integrated amplifier ($1500)

The perfect mate for Simaudio’s i-1 CD player (see our digital playback section), the entry-level Moon i-1 is a fine example of why integrated amplifiers offer such superb value. While it’s rated at a moderate 50Wpc, the i-1 nevertheless delivers impressive large-scale dynamics, a musically involving rhythmic liveliness, whiplash transient speed, and a fine top-to-bottom balance. Robust build-quality and a hefty power supply allow this model to double its output to 100WPc into 4 ohms. One of the purest and most transparent integrated amps in its class, says WG. (Reviewed in TAS 185)
www.simaudio.com

13. Ortofon 2M Red moving-magnet phono cartridge ($99)

The swansong design of Ortofon’s former chief engineer Per Windfeld, the entry-level 2M Red uses a tipped elliptical, while the 2M Black wields a formidable Shibata diamond stylus—the same as used on the vaunted MC Jubilee. NG feels that the 2M Black has a lighter touch and pulls the trigger faster than the competition. The Black’s greatest attribute is its transparent window on the world of micro-energies and its ability to unravel the complexities of orchestral music. Though a little dry in the treble and lacking the Black’s velvety finesse and harmonic finish, the 2M Red is still one sophisticated cartridge for the money. (Reviewed in TAS 182)
www.ortofon.com 

14. Benz-Micro Glider SM moving-coil phono cartridge ($1000)

When Benz Micro introduced the “S” class in 2008, every aspect of cartridge design was addressed. For the medium output (0.8mV) Glider SM, among them were new coil windings and an overall lower-mass coil, and further refinement of the solid Boron cantilever. But sonically it’s all about superlative tonal balance. There’s the reassuring dash of warmth in the lower mids and bass, a lush midrange and a presence range and treble that has air and delicacy. Vocals have a liquidity and harmonic color that never veer toward brittleness. The Glider is both faster on transients and more complex micro-dynamically. Besides its tonal honesty, elements that rate high with this cartridge are its gobs of low-level detail and its clarification of complex inner voices. Though the Glider is not as warm as the Clearaudio Maestro Wood, its added inner detail and energy make deciding between the two a tough choice. For those searching for playback that’s asmusically expressive as it is honest, the Glider will set your system soaring. (Reviewed in TAS 191)
www.musicalsurroundings.com

15. NAD C 325BEE integrated amplifier ($499)

The entry-level C315 is still the go-to amp for audiophile newbies who crave sonic neutrality, good power output, nice tactile feel, and NAD’s characteristic quality-control. With family values based on sonic results rather than outward flash. NAD’s honest approach to tonal balance rejects the sonic additives that make for fatiguing long-term relationships, choosing only to be lightly subtractive at the frequency extremes and with soundstage dimensionality. The portable-player mini-jack on the front panel is a welcome addition. Looking for a little more oomph? The 50Wpc C325 will make BEElievers of even the most jaded audiophiles. (Reviewed in TAS 140, 183)
www.nadelectronics.com

16. Cambridge Audio Azur 840W power amplifier ($2699)

The sonic and technical key to the 200Wpc 840W is its proprietary XD topology which runs in Class A at low levels and transitions over to an “enhanced” Class B at higher levels, without the typical crossover distortion normally associated with Class AB designs. Compared to its companion 840E preamp, the 840W amplifier comes off as a bit darker, bloomier, and more relaxed on transients; it also settles back a row or so in perspective; yet there’s a wide full-blown soundstage and robust dynamics, as well as seemingly limitless power reserves and that familiar, buttery, Class A vibe. On a great full-range loudspeaker the entirety of the low-end suddenly stands at attention via the 840W—complex passages are defined, harmonics focused, and images tightened. Beyond its sheer extension in the bass, the 840W’s dynamic punch comes on spring-loaded and heavy as a Joe Louis right. Designed for bridging or bi-amping, it can be reconfigured in a snap. Simply put, the 840W further complicates the debate about what defines “serious” as opposed to “value” audio—a supernatural deal. (Reviewed in TAS 186)
www.audioplusservices.com