What is the best integrated amplifier for a budget of $500?

default -- Wed, 07/08/2009 - 16:22

Could anybody help with some guidance regarding this: I am not a hi-fi specialist but I love music (no home-theater) and am rather picky in terms of sound quality. I would like to purchase a 2-channel stereo integrated amplifier and am not really familiar with the market. Three important things: my budget cannot go over $500, I do need the device to include a phono input, and ideally I would prefer an amp with a dual volt option because I am relocating from NY to France and taking it with me. Also, I should mention that I am more into durability than sophistication, that I own 2 pairs of JBL 4800 speakers, that I mostly listen to electric Blues and Hard-Rock, and that I will be setting my equipement in a huge living-room the size of 4 regular bedrooms...I checked the Marantz PM5003; it does have a phono input but works on a 120V outlet only. On the other hand, the Cambridge Audio Azur 540A seems to offer a Voltage Selecto Switch to 230V, but doesn't have a phono input!..any similar item that would offer both the phono input and a dual volt option (plus an A+B speaker system)?..I am aware that my budget is rather limited, but what is the best possible amp I can get for that kind of money? I am kind of lost and would highly appreciate your suggestions!
Thanks!

Robert Harley -- Thu, 07/09/2009 - 14:25

I replied to your post on another thread, but will repeat it here for the benefit of other readers. The Cambridge 540C V2 at $499 is probably the best sounding under-$500 integrated on the market. It has dual-voltage capabilty, but no phonostage. You should also consider the Rega Brio at $695 (a bit more expensive), which has an excellent integral phonostage.

Egbert (not verified) -- Thu, 07/30/2009 - 09:24

Hi Robert,
I am considering buying a good quality integrated amplifier which is able to switch from 120v to 240v as well. I've read your repsonse and was wondering what your overall favourite is. I do not have the 500$ restriction, but want something that I will enjoy for a while! I saw that Cambridge has updated its 540 and 640 v2 to 550 and 650, but they dont have the possibility to switch between voltage. I've also read very good reviews and considering those as well, on the Paradigm Monitor Titan v6 speakers an wondered if they are suitable for either the 650v2 or Rega Brio 3, or any other dual voltage integrated amp? One of the other main requirements for me is that it should be able to have an input for IPOD or IPOD dock. Thanks in advance for your help.

Prince (not verified) -- Thu, 07/09/2009 - 15:41

Thank you so much for your reply, Robert. I'll take another minute for your time: what if I go for a receiver instead of an integrated amp? would that be a good idea in terms of potential deals and requirements satisfaction? or should I just stick to the first option (in which case I would probably get the Cambridge Audio you mentioned)?
Thanks again!

Robert Harley -- Fri, 07/31/2009 - 16:04

I've just learned that the Cambridge 540A is discontinued, replaced by the 550A. The new unit reportedly has several major upgrades. The price has increased from $499 to $599.

titani (not verified) -- Fri, 01/08/2010 - 00:07

I am considering the harbeth monitors for my office and need an integrated amp to play music from the macbook.
I have heard the luxman 505 and the cary tubed integrated amp.
what would you recommend?
thanks.