need help with new stereo system!
richmawson -- Wed, 03/08/2006 - 01:20
I am looking to get my first "real" stereo system - integrated amp, cd player and speakers.
I am considering Cambridge Audio 640c and 640a, Rotel rcd1072 and ra1062, or Arcam cd73 and a65.
For speakers - Epos m5 or m12.2, the new B&W cm1, or Totem rainmakers.
Any opinions on a good combination of the above components??
From my experience, those are good choices, and the final result will depend on set up, as much as anything. But, I haven't heard, say, the Rotel with the Totems, though that strikes me as a pairing I would shy away from.
If you are still considering other components, be sure to check out THe Absolute Sound's Recommended Budget Systems, under AVguide Recommends on this site.
How do you think the Cambridge 640C would pair with the Rotel 1062 amp?? And the Epos M12.2 speakers??
I'm reviewing the Cambridge 540A integrated amp and 540C CD player in the next issue of The Absolute Sound, along with the Era Design 4 loudspeakers ($599 per pair). That review may help you decide.
Robert Harley
Editor-in-Chief
The Absolute Sound
The Perfect Vision
I have heard CD players made by both Rotel and Arcam. Arcam are known for their cd players as they have won several awards and are always highly reviewed (personally I would choose the Arcam Cd player). I purchased the Linn Genki cd player in 2001 - I was also sampling a Creek cd player as well as an Arcam player. It was a rough two days. I own a Rotel RSX 965 (Receiver 1999 model) and throughout the years I have been very pleased with Rotel. Unfortunately, it is your ears so if you can sit down and listen to all three systems. Play each CD player with the three different integrated amps etc. Do not be concern with upsetting the sales rep (phone for an audition, and bring coffee and donuts with you). If you are not able to listen to each system explore the internet and the reviews (i.e buying guides etc from stereophile, absolute sound etc). Good luck...
You should also look into PrimaLuna Prologue 1 or 2 (tube intergrate amps... $1100 - $1400 respectively). I just purchased the prologue seven's tube monoblocks ... believe me when I say the sound is awesome. The Prologue one has just won the product of the year by the absolute sound. I will say the prologue intergrate amps hands down before the rotel, Arcam or cambridge amps.
You asked about Rainmakers, so I thought I would chime in. I am a Totem dealer, so take that for what it is worth.
My point is that if you do audition a pair of Rainmakers, find out how long they have been played prior to your listening to them. My experience is that their sound improves [/i]dramatically after about 50 hours of use.
Post new comment