Integrated Amp Selection

default -- Sat, 04/18/2009 - 09:36

I am looking for some help selecting a good integrated amp to power a pair of SF Domus Concertino's coupled with a REL T3 sub. I am using Red Dawn IC's and speaker wire. I prefer a musical, detailed presentation over a more forward sound. For example, I auditioned the Thiel 1.6 and found them fatiguing to my ear. I have local dealers that handle Arcam, Simaudio, Primare & Bryston...I have also considered the well reviewed Creek integrateds. My budget is in the $1500 - $2500 range. Any thoughts...?
Thanks for your help...Steve

Robert Harley -- Sat, 04/18/2009 - 12:29

My favorite integrated amplifier under $2k is the Naim Nait 5i ($1625). Simaudio also makes outstanding integrated amps; they have a new 3-series that looks promising that's priced at the upper end of your range.

Frank I (not verified) -- Sat, 04/18/2009 - 13:36

I am currently been listening to the Outlaw 2150 receiver on sale for 499 till 4/20 on www.outlaw.com. I am using it in my high end system. with a classe cdp .5, sony 999es and Revel F30 and I have posted extensive comments on this amp. It simply amazing and at the price cannot be beat. It would work well with monitors. It is musical very powerful and neutral also has sub out with bass management. Try it for 30 day trial with free shipping back. I am keeping it its that good. The phone stage is also very good. Its a keeper.

ssettle (not verified) -- Sun, 04/19/2009 - 13:21

Mr. Harley,
Thanks for your reply. The SF Domus is a 4ohm/88dB design. It is my understanding that they will be a bit power hungry. Is the Naim @ 50wpc/8ohm got enough beef to drive these in a 14 x 18 ft. listening space? Your thoughts are welcome and appreciated.
Thanks...Steve

ssettle (not verified) -- Sun, 04/19/2009 - 13:21

Steve Dollar (not verified) -- Sun, 04/19/2009 - 00:00

That Vincent 236 100 watt (now 150) integrated is a MONSTER at 2k. Just phenomenal. Great combo of muscle and delicacy in SS/tube hybrid. Been loving mine.

naijeru -- Tue, 04/21/2009 - 18:04

I own a Nait 5i and it is a phenomenal amp. When I auditioned it the Nait blew me away with its insight into the music. It has a real uncanny ability to lock into the groove and deliver a great performance. I find I listen to my music with it not the hi-fi. Power ratings aren't very useful in determining what an amp can handle, despite having "only" 50wpc the Nait sounds much more powerful than that. I think it should be able to handle a 4ohm/88db load with no problem but as always the best way to be sure is to demo it.

Nigel (not verified) -- Wed, 04/22/2009 - 07:47

Hi Steve, I have the Primare i30 which I use with the cd31 and Sonus Faber Crem' auditor M speakers. These standmounts are also an 88dB/4ohm load and the Primare has great contol over them. I agree with naijeru in that power ratings can be miss-interpreted, for me the important factor is musicality and harmony between components and I find Primare works very well with SF. But let your ears be your guide and demo as much as possible.

Robert Harley -- Wed, 04/22/2009 - 14:09

The latest version of the Naim Nait 5i seems to have more "oomph" than its predecessors. I would certainly audition the Naim with you speakers; I think the Naim will drive them just fine. The Vincent SV-236 that Steve Dollar mentions is also worth consideration. They just upgraded it considerably and boosted the output power from 100Wpc to 150Wpc with no price increase.

I just reviewed the Goldenote S-1 Signature integrated (the issue mails next week) and thought it was exceptional—60Wpc and $2100.