I totally agree It’s a hard expensive lesson to learn But it’s been an adventure I personally don’t regret it
@a3marketing991
2 жыл бұрын
I just went to monoblocks with separate preamp, phono stage and DAC from an integrated. I would not go back. I don’t feel any integrated amp can give you the same performance as using high quality separates.
@liteo57
2 жыл бұрын
As a kid, I grew up listening to music played on high-end audio equipment such as McIntosh, Audio Research, Nakamichi, Linn Sondek... my father was & still is an audiophile. I'm now a recording engineer specialising in classical music. The gear I own is a modestly-priced set-up of a cd player, an intergrated amplifier & a pair of speakers which I use to monitor the recordings I work on.
@andysummersthxcinemaandmyc7748
2 жыл бұрын
i hate extreme of the extreme THX cinema that i actual took a piss on it i actually pissed on my system . i hate snob class audiophiles and you likes of snobs is why you made me hate my home THX cinema , people of likes of you and other likes of rich snob class kzitem.info/news/bejne/o6iV1aqtnYeUfYo
@Unpreeeedictable
2 жыл бұрын
There’s a lot to be said for simplicity. If you want an integrated amp with a built-in phono pre, I suggest making your decision based on the quality of the phono pre. Probably means Luxman.
@frederickrodger7249
2 жыл бұрын
I purchased an Accuphase E-480 last year and I cannot say enough positive things about it. It is not Class A but it has surpassed my expectations by a large margin. I have it driving a pair of Harbeth 7-xd speakers.
@markdoherty2750
2 жыл бұрын
I use the Audiolab 8000a integrated amp which is great but a few years ago I added x2 Audiolab 8200p power amps thus using it as a pre-amp. Happy with the result!👍🏼
@davidread5371
2 жыл бұрын
I went Integrated with a McIntosh MA6900 in 2006 and still listen to it, daily. I also have a vintage Luxman L309 in the bedroom that I simply love. This unit was produced in 1975 and still sounds gorgeous driving ADS 710s of the same approximate age. Dive in with reckless abandon, you won't regret it.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comment :)
@goaski474
2 жыл бұрын
Think about this - I was going to go the upgrade route and money wise actually wound up going the oppisite way. After auditioning the Buchardt Audio A500 because of a review by Darko, I sold everything off and bought these. No nothing except for the speakers on stands and a 5x4 streaming hub with remote. Superb sound.
@KenM
Жыл бұрын
I went from a pre-amp & power amp setup to a Luxman class A-B integrated amp. Zero regrets! I might like to upgrade to their class A, but right now it's not possible for me.
@cameronkrause4712
2 жыл бұрын
2 years ago I bought the Denon pma1600ne. I have not regretted it, It has plenty of power 70 into 8 and 140 into 4. The built in DAC is fantastic. moving magnet and moving coil capable and even the headphone output is good. I am glad that I did not spend more because I think I bought the best bang for buck integrated there is, and it sounds fantastic
@itsik_
2 жыл бұрын
Luxman is a great choice! I went through the exact process and ended up with a Luxman L-507uXII. You can consider one of their lower wattage tube amps such as the LX-380 given your Zu's
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
I'm afraid the tubes will sound Mushy since I play lots of electronic music as well. Thanks
@RUfromthe40s
2 жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 tubes with electronic music it´s the best but mines were made by a old technician who built part of the electronics on boeing comercial jet airplanes in the 60´s like the famous 747 ,they do take 30 minuts to warm up but perfect sound as the speakers were built by him to and my wooden work. i made lot´s of music in the 90´s using mostly roland and a litle korg equipment also 60´s moog analog keyboard and a web of wires and mellotron that i caught first by listening to the Beatles and i went to hell and back to find the one i wanted
@Enobenetto
2 жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 almost anything with a kt88 or EL84 will sound pretty linear and great with electronic music (but not headphones)
@tyroneedge8267
2 жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 this is an inaccurate stereotype. Perhaps you don’t want the hassle of tubes, but there is nothing mushy about a properly designed tube circuit.
@strannostrannovasrr
2 жыл бұрын
Accuphase or Luxman make both very decent integrated amps.
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
yes, and the resale value is about as good as good can be with audio equipment
@philipaparker
2 жыл бұрын
Went with an integrated amp. Chose the Cambridge Audio CX81 and a pair of Totem Sky Towers and couldn't be happier. The CX81 lets me stream, has a built-in DAC, great Phono pre-amp (have the Alva TT from Cambridge). But have to say most everything is available over iTunes. So my record collection is being negleted. For me, this is pure listening enjoyment. Good luck finding your next integrated amp.
@robfrancis8690
2 жыл бұрын
I also downsized to an integrated amp. I have a British-made Myryad MI 120 integrated. It's an excellent piece of gear. I matched it up with a set of two-way System Audio SA205s speakers resting on a pair of SANUS buckshot-filled stands. I have a Brick Wall Series Mode Power Quality Filter. My Acoustic Zen cables were made in the USA by the great master craftsman, Robert Lee. My source is a Mac Pro streaming TIDAL through a Chord DAC. It's a Small practical system that resonates a huge lively soundstage with beautifully imaged and detailed instruments and voices. Attaining audio nirvana is possible with a system like this correctly placed within the framework of an appropriate sounding room.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I agree. I will have to look into the MyRyad
@robfrancis8690
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 Their old gear is of great value. Oh, good call on Luxman 509X. Exceptionally well designed and sounds wonderful. My sister has one, and I love that she let me set up her system with a pair of Borressen Silver Supreme Edition 01's. These are truly a match made in heaven.
@johnbritton895
2 жыл бұрын
the grass is always greener.. Ive been back and forward a few times, but I came to the conclusion I was just trying to justify to myself buying new toys.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
To be truthful, that is a part of my decision as well. :)😁
@BobFrostV
2 жыл бұрын
Lol I was about to say the same thing. He wants to trade his low/midfi rack for a single end-game component. That's fine of course, but it deserved to be said for what it is instead of justifying the purchase with the emphasis going to downsizing the obsession like this is being reasonable. Luxman is really nice, enjoy w/e you get.
@AgentPepsi1
2 жыл бұрын
I went from separates, to an integrated, and back to separates. I just sold my Yamaha A-S701 (which is an awesome piece BTW) and got a Adcom GFP-815 and Adcom GFA-6002. The Yamaha definitely has more power, but the imaging is significantly better on the Adcom. I am going to replace the GFA-6002 power amp with either a Rotel RB1552 or an Adcom GFA-555ms.
@brish2530
2 жыл бұрын
I did the same thing. Replaced emotiva monoblocs and preamp with a Audiolab 6000A Running Zu Omens with it and I’m very happy
@wolfman007zz
2 жыл бұрын
I’ve been minimalist since 1981! Sherwood receiver, TT, speakers, tape deck. But I also switch to my SAE Two A14 integrated amp with MM/MC phono, Tape 1+2, parametric tone controls. Designed by SAE, built by Luxman.
@jaismohamad1497
2 жыл бұрын
When my technics complete set was stolen, I totally stopped listening to hi fi. When I retired I bought a Chinese made hybrid amp and a pair of wharfedales. It is just great. The amp is cheap but it makes the wharfedales sing! Software is through the internet. So one amp and a good set of speakers keep me satisfied.
@thomasward00
2 жыл бұрын
In my bedroom system I have an Arcam SA10 Integrated with built in DAC, Wharfedale Denton 80 bookshelves and ML Dynamo 400 Sub... I run optical out from my TV to my Amp and stream from that. It sounds amazing and simply I don't need more.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
That is what matters. If you feel you are at the point to where you don't need more..that's a good thing
@harackmw
2 жыл бұрын
I was starting down this path of audiophileness when I saw Andrew Robinson's video about attending the blind tests done in the early 2000s, and how most of the people in the rooms were industry professionals. They all failed the tests enough to reveal that their subjective beliefs on what they were hearing (including spotting their own speakers among the samples) were basically just that, purely subjective, and often completely wrong. The question haunts me; how much do you really have to spend before you can consistently hear differences in gear in a blind test? Companies surely do NOT want us asking such questions, they want us to take the hook and never get off of it. I have decided to sell a lot of my gear as well, and simplify the system. Imagine if half the video channels on gear started reviewing music and talking about their favorite albums instead, they would be doing far more for posterity.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Here's the thing nobody talks about. Just like eyesight, people's hearing is different. One frequency to me may sound different to you. That is why I'm baffled by "some snob audiophiles" who refuse to ever think of using tone controls or an equalizer. Manufacturers use measurements as the key tool to provide the best sound to the widest variety of people. People hear things differently, have different environments, different likes and dislikes.
@robertorodriguez2609
2 жыл бұрын
that's what high-end gear is all about, to make people take the hook.
@garygarlucialuciani9794
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 no human alive is going to hear the difference between .01% distortion, and noise and .0001% distortion and noise. Audiophiles are like the proverbial man in the desert who sees an oasis in the distance and heads towards it expecting to eventually reach it. He never will because It's not real. It's an illusion. It's true that everyone hears frequencies differently, but in blind tests comparing $500 components to $10,000 components none of the people passed the test. They couldn't reliably tell the difference when they couldn't see what they were listening to.
@MyIDIsNotAvailable
2 жыл бұрын
Amen
@Butterking99
2 жыл бұрын
this is why in my opinion studio monitors are plenty hifi as it gets
@johnsimmons5056
2 жыл бұрын
Since you like your Zu Speakers and they are so easy to drive you really should check out the Pass Labs Int-25. It is bare bones minimalist with no dac, or phono pre. It is an incredible integrated. Those Zu's sound incredible with low watt class A....but you know that already since I see a first watt J2 sitting next to you. Another intergrated to try is a CODA CSIB. Made in America. Doug Dale over at CODA was Nelson Passes partner I believe when they owned Threshold. CODA and Pass Labs have the best customer service going. I have a friend who purchased a 30+ year old Threshold Amp that needed work. He sent it to pass labs and they recapped it for him and brought it to original spec and they charged him practically nothing for it. He was not even the origianl owner of the AMP. Just amazing service.
I'm a minimalist and after 6 decades of audio, trying all combination of amps, pre-amp, integrated amps. The magic started with Belles Aria a hand built, in the USA, an integrated amp by David Belles. He's has produced many Gems over the decades featured at various HiFi Shows driving everybody's speakers. I prefer to drive high quality 2 way bookshelf speakers for near field listening. Do yourself a favour and spend some time listening to Belles Aria, great phono stage, with several inputs for CD etc.
@bricedoan6695
2 жыл бұрын
I use a Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated to drive my Thiel CS 3.7s with Cardas cabling, great combo.
@raphaelmeillat8527
2 жыл бұрын
Wow, nice rig!
@icebiker1540
2 жыл бұрын
I own a Gyphon Diablo 120 intergrated to drive my Audio Physic Virgo III. Super nice didn't completely break the bank.
@23chilled
2 жыл бұрын
I’ve cut down on the amount of units. Bought a nice old 319 integrated amp. Recapped part of it. Sounds absolutely sublime. To be honest it belies it’s original rrp price of £500 and sounds better than a lot of more expensive gear I’ve had. It’s a real magic music maker of a unit.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
NAD has always made great sounding gear. To be honest not much has changed in amplifiers thru the years (except Class D, Digital features, etc). Since you recapped the 319, you are good for another 15 years I would guess
@mkfmkf55
2 жыл бұрын
Your thoughts echo mine exactly. The minimalist systems with just a few high quality items are so much more appealing to me now than the cluttered rooms with wires everywhere. I have a Bluesound Node feeding a Rogue preamp & Parasound power amp, but I'm also searching for an integrated solution. Accuphase, Pass, & Luxman are possibilities.
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
I hear the NAD all-in Ones with the Bluesound OS are fantastic
@gmp203
7 ай бұрын
I totally commiserate with your current position. I have gone through a few systems since the early 70s and quite frankly I love audio as a hobby but I just wanna sit and listen to a nice simple basic system that is high and without all of the interconnects and power cords and tweaks and pokes. Currently looking at the Conrad Johnson Integrated system with built-in DAC. That system runs about 50 K, I’m going to have to check and see if it’s got an upgradable DAC but I doubt it. Thanks for that thought. Good luck!
@mr.b4444
2 жыл бұрын
I'm with you on this brother. I'm in my mid 60's and for many years had various stereo equipment racks with separates, equalizers, you name it. I got hooked on this when I was stationed in japan in the early 80's.. It seemed like every few months something bigger and better would come out. A year or so ago I looked at my system and it hit me. This crap is ugly! It sounds good but heats up the room among other things. I sold all that stuff and now I just have an Outlaw Audio RR 2160MkII receiver, Cambridge Audio Azure 851N, Rotel C11Tribute CD player, and Emotiva Airmotive T2+ speakers. All components are silver and It all sits horizontally on a a decent looking shelf/stand. No turntable, I got rid of that too and all those records. I use the Azure 851 to play FLAC files from an external USB SSD. The speakers aren't the nicest looking but they sound great. Sometimes, less is more. By the way, I am a jazz guitarist and listen mostly to jazz, so clarity and detail is very important to me.
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
The Outlaw receiver has gotten lots of high praise thru the yeas. I listen to a lot of Grant Green and early George Benson
@gage4375
Жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 I'm thinking about getting the outlaw what are pro and cons of that receiver
@JerryRutten
2 жыл бұрын
I went minimalistic, and DIY, out of necessity, because, after reading some literature, I realized that almost all audio systems are fundamentally flawed and what I wanted was not available. My config * Closed enclosures * Multi-channel power amp * Active crossovers with DAC Without * Passive X/O * Port * Electromagnetic damping * Conductive voice coil formers * Ferro fluids * High excursion drivers * Pre-defined crossover curves * Knobs With * High output impedance / Low damping factor * Also called current-drive or transconductance * Higher output impedance than First Watt F1 * Eliminates electric damping * Eliminates microphone effect * Lowers modulated noise * Lowers distortion in drivers * Eliminates (huge) IM distortion by modulated voice coil inductance * Eliminates power compression * Makes type of cables irrelevant * Makes output and frequency response stable * Only three push buttons (for the whole system) * Power on (it’s always on) * Power to the amplifier output stages * Input switch (off or on) Results * Full range! * Lower distortion * Lower modulated noise * More open, clearer * Better and more stable sound stage * More dynamic Gave away my (traditional) integrated and my (traditional, with passive crossovers) loudspeakers. Once you experienced current-drive, you never go back to voltage-drive and electric damping.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
You built your own amp? I bet your system sounds wonderful
@JerryRutten
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 It doesn't sound wonderful, because I built it, but because the fundamentals are right. And it is not only the amplifier, because if you change only the amplifier to current-drive (high output impedance), it doesn't help. You also need to change the crossovers: or to redesign the passive crossovers for current-drive, or to use active crossovers, which I did (because it is better, easier and way more efficient). So, next to the amplifier, I had to build my own closed enclosure speakers without (passive) crossovers, and I had to realize active crossovers. The combination of those three make it sound wonderful.
@robertm8518
2 жыл бұрын
I recently downsized and my went integrated Line Magnetic KT88 LM881a tube amp. I am very happy with its performance with Dynaudio Contour 20i bookshelf monitor speakers.
@geraldford6409
2 жыл бұрын
Some of us 50+ crowd are doing similar, but focusing on higher end DAC/headphone amp/headphone combo for the most minimalist 2ch setup I do multichannel 5.1+ for concert discs and movies in a dedicated higher end home theater. Front L-R are PSB T2's with 2x Rythmik 12SE's, so does double duty for 2ch speaker listening without compromise IMO
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
I went thru a surround phase about 18 years ago. For music, I never was impressed. Movie...ok. In our living room, we have a Sony surround bar and rear speakers which gives all the surround we need for TV/Movies.
@geraldford6409
2 жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 I often hear this from local 2ch audiophiles, but in my experience, it appears those I have known either don't want to spend the effort/time/money or set up correctly a 5.1/Atmos system. They may use mid-fi or lower end receivers for the processing/DAC/amp, surround speakers that are much lower quality/grade than their front L-C-R, WAF prevents good speaker placement, no effort put into basic audio calibration/setup to blend the sound from all 5.1+ speakers, and other common issues. Others may have little interest/passion for movies, and remain 2ch music purists, which is fine. But to knock all 5.1+ setups is short sighted. Using quality speaekrs all around with good quality receiver/processor/amps and calibrated, the immersion effect and soundfield can be amazing. The HUGE library of lossless 5.1+ channel BluRay material, both movies and concert/music, is hard to ignore for me
@laorhino9702
2 жыл бұрын
Moved everything to the basement but Klipsch Cornwalls (too heavy) got me a Rotel A12 integrated, dug up JVC QL-F4 turntable, added an old iPad for streaming, wife is happy she got her living room back and I’m super happy because the simple system sounds great. Told the wife not to go to the basement.
@robh9079
2 жыл бұрын
Stick with a separate phono pre - opens up your choice in amps, is the most critical area to keep separate, plus it can be hidden away - worth it if you listen to a lot of records.....
@acearris4033
2 жыл бұрын
I think you should keep your system ! Just box it up store it in the attic and get a new system!!! There is no need to sell or get rid of it, you will regret it if you do
@earlismarks7108
2 жыл бұрын
Good luck with the search for minimal nirvana...for sure it's out there. 👍😃
@rudigerhoppe5708
2 жыл бұрын
You may want to consider Lyngdorf.
@kjaudio1
2 жыл бұрын
Two systems I suggest. System 1 PMC Fact 12 Signature loudspeakers powered by an AVM Audio A6.3 System 2 Kaiser Acoustics Furioso loudspeakers powered by AVM Audio A8.3
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I'll hae to check out AVM Thanks
@smooth7689
2 жыл бұрын
I’ll be going from a pre-power situation to a pre-amplifier and active speaker situation. All Moon and ATC active speakers. Amplification is after an active crossover and sound quality should be improved. Just 2 boxes - source (Streamer DAC) and preamplifier.
@dhmallet
2 жыл бұрын
I previously had a full PS Audio setup, but have since gone integrated with a PrimaLuna Evo 400, a Mark Levinson ML 5905, and now a Luxman L509x, which blows the others out of the water. It has a naturalness in the mids that is palpable, smooth highs, a profound sense of 3D in terms of depth and wall to wall imaging.
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
Did you have a BHK amp?
@dhmallet
2 жыл бұрын
@@daleclark4160 I went full monty with the BHK 250, BHK preamp, Directstream DAC and transport, PowerPlant, and the integrated in my 2nd system.
@Nightjar726
2 жыл бұрын
Benchmark pre and power amp and done. You will be surprised.
@michaelsands9474
2 жыл бұрын
I'm going the same thing. I went from VERY expensive separates to an integrated (Audionet) to use with my Wilson Audio speakers. I have to admit that this isn't the best combo, so I'm looking for another integrated. Pass Labs is at the top of a very short list but the Willlerson 800i or one Magnetic is also a strong possibility. I went from tubes to SS and there is a huge difference in presentation. Te Audionet is open, detailed, punchy...but.. it lacks soul/feeling. ..and I miss that. It would seem that transitioning would be easy, but synergy still rules.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Pass may be right up your alley.
@LawsonsStudio
2 жыл бұрын
Strange you're going through this too. That's the route I've accidentally gone down. I've never been a turntable person. (Since my wife bent my over expensive stylus in a dusting accident). After buying a Rose Audio streamer, it was obvious that it was better than anything else I owned. so the CD player and RPi streamer were ditched and my system is now just the Rose Streamer (playing Qobuz and local rips) a valve amp and speakers. After a lifetime of separates, it's hard to come to terms with the fact that it's only one up from a music centre.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I'm thinking of a HiFi Rose streamer
@LawsonsStudio
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 it's seriously good. A game changer
@robertnitsche8410
2 жыл бұрын
I recently made the move from a Emotiva amp and pre amp to an Arcam SA-20 integrated. Big upgrade in sound quality, and it pairs much better with my B&W 606 S2 speakers. Couldn't be happier I made the switch.
@gordonlesforis772
2 жыл бұрын
Hi I'm at that stage in hifi. I would like a Luxman amp ._but here in the UK they start at £ 4500. Out of my price range. I have been looking at the Yamaha SA 2100.
@tbrobison
2 жыл бұрын
Nice video and thanks for sharing your journey to minimalism. I'm with you on paring things down to the essentials. Maybe even a bit more than you. Currently, I'm running a Peachtree nova150 integrated amp with a Bluesound Node 2i streaming device to a pair of efficient tower speakers. I have a turntable connected to a 5.1 Denon AVR for use in our family room, but the last time I spun up the turntable was in 2020. My near term plan is to upgrade the nova150 to Peachtree's new. not yet delivered, GaN 1 amp @200wpc. That amp and the latest Bluesound Node will be the minimalist's minimal set up. I'm done with all the other superfluous gear and ready to just listen to music.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I had the Peachtree "tube" pre at one time. I do like the design of Peachtree's gear. Quad looks like they share the same design
@ozpopjazz
2 жыл бұрын
I love simple systems. I use a Yamaha A-S2100 integrated amplifier and very happy with it. If I were you, I would go with an Accuphase or something like an Hegel. Yamaha's high-end models are also my favorites. I use a simple Arylic streaming preamp with my custom-built Museic Soundworks Model R loudspeakers.
@savagedick1462
Жыл бұрын
The older vintage audio pre 80 is like collecting old toys , hard to let go of cause they're so individually unique. Nowadays hifi mostly all look the same and easy not to get attached to and easier to discard
@connorduke4619
2 жыл бұрын
Luxman would be my first choice if I went integrated for sure. I like's it neutral balance, Accuphase and Pass Labs are also great but tilted too warm for me. What really matters is the synegery with your Xu speakers so you should demo before buying anything, no matter how nice it looks on paper. I am personally moving towards an alternative simplified four piece system: Jay's Audio CDT2 Mk3 (CD Transport) + Holo Audio May KTE (Dac) + Holo Audio Serene KTE (preamp) + ATC SCM 40A (active speakers).
@daleclark4160
2 жыл бұрын
Yes. I can't audition local. there are quite a few ZU owners who use Luxmans, even the class A/B ones.
@hermanjackson8857
2 жыл бұрын
Hey man I feel your pain. I believe minimalism is the current trend in home audio. I’m currently running a McIntosh 5300 integrated amp, a pair of Totem Ember speakers, Node 2i streamer and a tricked out Project Debut Carbon turntable with a Sumiko bluepoint #2 cartridge. In the high end home audio lane that’s a pretty lightweight system but it sounds great to me. I think you’re making a good move. Good luck !
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I don't think your system is light weight. I'll be looking at McIntoshes once my gear sells
@georgep3323
2 жыл бұрын
I did this about a year ago, sold my multi box Naim amps ( 300dr / 252 SC dr / Super line with HC dr ) tried many at home, Luxman , Accuphase , Hegal and others, yes wish I did it sooner. I decided on a the Luxman 590axii as number 1, and Accuphase e650 as number 2 choice, Very happy with the Luxman, In many ways preferred to my Naims , on every level. More musical / open / natural and not forced, enjoyably, easy massive depth/ stage. Spent years with Naims since 1980s , Nice amps , but for me now the Luxman is the end game, with excellent VFM compared to my Naims. £25k+ My Luxman sounds amazing, musical & true. with my Harbeths / Linn LP12 , Innuous , Chord Dac.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I agree with Luxman being an end game amp. I've never heard any Naim amps in person. I hear they are special.
@olaniyi570
2 жыл бұрын
Love Luxman be aware that their class A amps can run pretty warm. They need good ventilation. Marantz integrated amplifiers have some very good built in phono stages. I have a Yamaha AS-1100 very happy with it. If I had more cash I'd get Denon PMA-A110 no contest.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Yes...MY firstWatt would get quite warm as well.
@gary-kr7dm
2 жыл бұрын
If it’s not class A it’s not hot 😁
@johnshepherd708
2 жыл бұрын
Since you have such high efficiency loudspeakers, yo may want to take a look at the Sugden A21 or A21SE class A integrated or the Exposure 2510 integrated amplifiers. All three are made in the UK and will keep things simple.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Sudgen was on my list at one time
@garygrice921
2 жыл бұрын
I went through a very similar thought process as you and wish I did it sooner. I decided on a the Luxman 590axii. Could not be happier. It's paired to my Jbl 4367 speakers. My speakers are 94 db and you said your speakers are higher than that. 30 watts is more than enough for such efficient speakers.
@BobFrostV
2 жыл бұрын
Luxman bass control knob only controls like 100 or 125hz. I'd go with one of the 8 knob Mcintosh integrated if I was you. Then you'll get 25hz, 50, 100, etc. If you're set on class A then luxman may be one of your best bets. Good luck!
@dwightballard3868
2 жыл бұрын
I still have a "big" system with Big floor standing speakers that weigh about 500 Pounds each. I have a streamer, dac and amps- still have to set up my turntable- but it's a "big" sounding huge width and depth soundstage with great extension in both the bass and the highs- very happy- not hugely expensive all told about 150k including cables. The key is having a dedicated listening room so cosmetics are of secondary concern. Going to an integrated receiver with satellite speakers would be a huge step in the wrong direction. But to each his own
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Yes..I would be with you 10 years ago
@dwightballard3868
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 Yes, and I would probably be with you now if I had my system in the main living room- definitely "wife friendly" :)
@JukeboxAlley
2 жыл бұрын
Definitely keep the zus, their awesome, I'd like to have mine back also.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I agree. The Zus are not going anywhere. Plus they are so heavy...not easy to move around.
@bjorn2fly
2 жыл бұрын
Integrated Hegel with DAC and remote, you can even switch songs in Spotify and more from the remote. Quality is superb, and price is acceptable.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I love the Hagels...the built in Dac is not upgradeable....which hurts resale value down the rd. I'm a person who, in 3 years, can look for something else
@bjorn2fly
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 1. you dont need to use the dac, consider the dac worthless in a few years, 2 the technoøogy in both dac and amp will hold for 10 years more, I bought mine 15 years ago, and no copycats yet, but really their technology does not matter, the sound does, and it will be the same in 100 years
@bjorn2fly
2 жыл бұрын
Im assuming you are worried about dac to keep value, if so, then definately buy used. But the dac in hegel is plenty good, and the good dacs is was started the company.
@timarnett7813
2 жыл бұрын
completely agree! i just realized i don't need a dbx pa2, amp for every driver, woofer, horn, and super tweeter! done with the tinkering, mic'ing, etc... i think i used to enjoy that more than the music, now its the other way around. all i want to do is flip the switch and sit back and listen.
@RUfromthe40s
2 жыл бұрын
Luxman and acuphase but early 2000´s , magnat tube amps. ,technics it´s too exp'ensive today and worse than their 70´s material
@michaelpagan3914
2 жыл бұрын
look at musical fidelity Encore 225.
@mango6052
2 жыл бұрын
I came from a Naim box collection and turnend to a integrated Mcintosh with DAC card and phono . Plenty of power, no additional boxes, less cables, great sound. I‘m happy with it
@TheMrgonzalo05
2 жыл бұрын
What Mac model?
@maxine2798
2 жыл бұрын
I’m still happy with my 30+ year old naim amps. No changes needed because I’m happy with the sound. All this “back to basics” is still new gear. Why not get an amp you like and stick with it if you want the simple life?
@d.e.cooney7077
2 жыл бұрын
Right behind you, after 25+ years of amazing separates, mods/upgrades. Looking at restarting for the sake of consolidation and simplicity. Totally get it. No question my separate tube DAC, tube preamp, monoblock tube amplifiers and investment in great cables can sound unparalleled. However, in a similar manner it will be necessary to step up a few levels towards a super nice integrated to make it worth it Choose well, and you may end up liking it more musically.
@andysummersthxcinemaandmyc7748
2 жыл бұрын
i hate extreme of the extreme THX cinema that i actual took a piss on it i actually pissed on my system . i hate snob class audiophiles and you likes of snobs is why you made me hate my home THX cinema , people of likes of you and other likes of rich snob class kzitem.info/news/bejne/o6iV1aqtnYeUfYo
@quinto34
2 жыл бұрын
I use a Marantz PM11S2 to drive my Harbeth SHL5+40th speakers, have a SL1200G turntable, art9 cartridge, SPL Phonos phono amp and Gustard x26pro DAC I never would have guessed I'd spend this much for hifi say 20 years ago, but my love for classical music & Jazz made me do it :)
@helgar791
2 жыл бұрын
All of the amps you mentioned, Pass Labs, Accuphase, and Luxman are great choices man. Hard to go wrong with Class A amps.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Yes..they all are pricey lol
@annarobertson8320
2 жыл бұрын
I went Woo audio class A
@helgar791
2 жыл бұрын
@@annarobertson8320 Nice amps. I own the WA 6. But these are headphone amps, even their most powerful amps are no more than about 9 watts. Now his speakers appear to be the Zu Audio Omen Def Supreme,s, and although they are extremely efficient, they would probably be better served by more than 5 or 6 watts. Probably more along the lines of the 25 watts given by the J2's 25 watts. If I were him I'd go with the Pass labs Int-60 which is 30 watts Class A then switches to Class AB over that amount. The Luxman 509X's are also very good indeed.
@zemanpa
Жыл бұрын
Good move. Devialet Expert Pro, Lyngdorf 3400, Anthem STR. Room Correction.
@archifi9978
Жыл бұрын
Thanks. I've been super happy
@cathodebias
2 жыл бұрын
You should consider a Fisher integrated tube amp from the 60s.
@cathodebias
2 жыл бұрын
If you are running Zu speakers, a 60s tube integrated is more than powerful enough to drive them
@dashriprock2065
2 жыл бұрын
i have gone down the same path. about 10 years ago, I had a pass labs class A amp blow a channel & take out a proac speaker. all because of a goof while adjusting the interconnects. japanese units are well regarded. i suggest you look at Hegel also. There is a video from ab audio show which captures the chief designer at Harbeth mentioning they use Hegel for demos because the low distortion of the Hegel is something he has never seen/measured in any amplifier in his 40 year career. I have an iotavx right now, remarkable performance for the price. good luck with efforts.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I am doing some digging on Hagel.....their name keeps popping up
@felixfranzen7318
Жыл бұрын
Sounds like good decision. Having a lot of separates does do you any good and it doesn't sound better either. Noone can tell an integrated amp from separates boxes by sound alone. All amps with a flat response, low distortion (no tube amps) and power to drive your speakers will sound exactly the same. And that's a good thing. The Luxman amps looks fantastic by the way but they're crazy expensive.
@shaunjp2211
Жыл бұрын
Used to own Naim pre power amp but now gone integrated Musical Fidelity MS2I with separate musical Fidelity Phono and DAC. All run through Quad S2 speakers. Sounds pretty good we’ll pleased
@archifi9978
Жыл бұрын
I'm not certain I'll ever go back to a separate pre. If I find a little tube amp or something, I'll just use the pre-outs of my Luxman
@capelight52
2 жыл бұрын
Dale, You can check with Take Five Audio in CT. Thanks, Francis
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
thanks
@ianarthur3412
2 жыл бұрын
Audio-Minimalism is an Audiophile reaching a crossroads and choosing the right path …………at last! I have a Cyrus Lyric09, a Rega phono mkIII , a turntable and a pair of Dynaudio bookshelf’s……..life is so much less complicated now I’ve excercised my audio-envy demons
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
That's a nice system...
@alancrane4693
2 жыл бұрын
Started with a integrated it was a NAD amplifier 1987,got a ROKSAN K3 2003, then went separate route 2011 with Cyrus. Was going to go back to the integrated route for the similar reasons to much clutter and cables were getting to me. Was going to try out a Macintosh integrated but when I heard Naim NAC and NAP Amp's with power supplies I stayed with the separate system. NAC 252 with supercap, NAP 300DR. My sources already Naim which I was using with Cyrus and would have been connected to a Macintosh integrated ect. Sources unity core and NDX2 with psudr power supply. Speakers Fyne Audio F1-8. Just love richness and warmth it adds over the previous setups I had. Yes it does feel like the musicians preform in the room. Main music i play is rock,in its many forms.
@raphaelmeillat8527
2 жыл бұрын
Beautiful set-up!
@InsideOfMyOwnMind
2 жыл бұрын
Don't buy anything with the promise of future upgradable cards unless you can get what you will ultimately want at the point of initial purchase.
@philbarone4603
2 жыл бұрын
I see Trane up on your wall. If you’re a jazz or classical fan don’t get a ss amp,
@dmarcus1260
2 жыл бұрын
I'm heavily invested into the Apple ecosystem. My primary audio setup is an iMac, Gustard X26 Pro DAC and a Headamp GSX-Mini headphone amp. The headphones I listen to the most are the Sennheiser HD 800S, Focal Clears and HifiMan Aryas. All the music I listen to is on Apple Music. My secondary audio system is the MacBook Pro and the AirPods Max. Gone are the days for me of listening to music on CDs and vinyl.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I'm moving my CD player to my network/server area. I can rip sacds thru the network.
@2011RAIMONDS
2 жыл бұрын
You are absolutely right. Luxman 590axII A class is a fantastic amplifier. I switched from Mark Levinson 585 to Luxman and do not regret in terms of sound quality which for Luxman is more impressive.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing. I continue to be impressed everytime I listen. After 30 minutes or so after start up, the amp really sings
@tomdijks689
2 жыл бұрын
Technics su-r1000 is a complete one of the best soundings amps in its class and beyond. Especially the phono input is unbeatable with its own test records..
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I have been really tempted. There are a couple of used ones floating around....I'm just concerned about resale in a couple of years.
@venooramiah1359
2 жыл бұрын
All these old vintage you talking about, lots of them available in Malaysia, especially Klang valley, old vintage Pioneer, sansui, luxman etc
@LyndonSoulGroove
2 жыл бұрын
Yamaha Integrated are very good, though i found the built in Phone stage was only a " get started one " so went for a separate Project built in valve phono stage
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Yamaha builds great everything.
@Stevo19801
2 жыл бұрын
Have a look at Andrew Robinson B&O system review, can’t ignore room correction these days
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I believe the Anthem integrateds have room correction ability
@MarkSWilliams27
2 жыл бұрын
Exposure integrated from Gene Rubin. Musical Fidelity? Luxman is much more expensive but great of course. LFD - even a used one would be something to consider. Good luck on your journey to simplify. Even a Rega Brio is a very nice integrated with a great phono preamp.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
thanks for watching
@sampolin2203
2 жыл бұрын
First brand that popped into my mind when you said minimalism was 47 Labs from Japan.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I did take a look at their 4736 integrated. That thing is small :)
@sampolin2203
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 indeed, and it offers a great punch in a form factor of that size!
@Waitaminutesilly
2 жыл бұрын
I think 2 box solution is the way to go. Like DAC + Pre + streamer and Amp or DAC + Streamer and Pre + AMP integrated. I personally prefer the former option, but if you are doing digital only, the later option would be more practical as you can just swap DACs as technology improves. I think 2 box solution is a sweet spot as it keeps cables simple, you get pretty much all the connectivity for both digital and analogue. You can also mixed in some tubes if you're into that. Simaudio Moon 390 is an excellent Preamp, DAC, and network player. Also has a good phono. It will match with your amp nicely. With a single box solution, you're marrying to one house sound. If you do not like it down the road, you will need to sell it and replace the whole thing.
@lpspinners8736
2 жыл бұрын
I was thinking nearly the same as you to downsize to an integrated amplifier and chose the Naim Supernat 3 integrated. One box, extreme high quality volume and balance controls and a row of input selectors that exude quality with a nice tactile feel. Rated at 80 WPC into 8 ohms and 130 wpc into 4 ohms, this amp sounds BIG, way beyond its extremely conservative power rating. High quality parts and engineering plus that tactile feeling of its controls make this a simple, yet fun high end piece of gear. Its shocking to me is that the inboard moving magnet phono stage is not an afterthought. It is so good that I have no desire for an outboard phono stage. I can certainly live with this Naim piece for a long. long time. PLUS...it's a rather slim amp that I can easily😂😂 pick up (28 lbs), yet sounds like it weighs 80 lbs. If you spin vinyl and want a one box solution to connect your loudspeakers, look no further than the Supernait 3. Speakers are B&W CM-5's (looking to upgrade) and the turntable is MoFi's Ultradeck table with the MoFi MasterTracker cartridge.😂😂Highly enjoyable combo that is easy to recommend!
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I'll check out Naim
@bryanwilliams3665
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 Lovely presentation is Naim..They are the 'Kings" of Rhythm/Timing yet easy relaxed listening at the same time. Difficult to get both those attributes in the one amp as they normally work against each other.
@brooklynknightss
2 жыл бұрын
I have a Yamaha aventage 3060 pushing definitive technology Bp20 I bought new 30 years ago and still love them. I have bp2000s to. I love the bluetooth and wifi so I can stream my music to!
@tallpaull9367
2 жыл бұрын
Sugden Masterclass ANV-50 Integrated Amplifier could be good
@Schnauzer-2
2 жыл бұрын
I am thinking the same way. I’m 65 and some times I want an excellent integrated stereo amp with my actual speakers and my turntable ( A vintage mint Dual CS 721 that is better than any new turntable from the same brand and others pretending be high end, but don’t ). My actual system is a mid high end , sounds fantastic, but I want something simple. I like other brands different than yours, that I never was flirting, but I’ m discovering now and I like them. I’m 64, and I have been in this hobby since I was a boy. Now, I want simplicity and audio quality. Go forward and let us know your thoughts and actions. Thanks for your video.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks ...I'm really hoping a nice integrated and beautifying my listening space will satisfy my itch.
@redleather100
2 жыл бұрын
See if you can demo a Cambridge audio edge a . Very nice integrated .
@cheapcheerfulrecordcollect8071
2 жыл бұрын
New subscriber here. I have a very modest system. Project Debut Carbon TT with a Ortofon blue, Snell Type E IV speakers I picked up at Goodwill for a song, and had a Adcom power amp and Adcom pre-amp/tuner, which I picked up on Craigslist for cheap too. When the Adcom started giving me trouble I went with an integrate amp. Budget constraints kept me at $1,000, so I went with the Rotel A12. The Rotel is fine but lacks the punch of the Adcom. If I had to do it again I’d probably get the Adcom fixed and stay with that. For now the Rotel is fine. PS- Love the LL Bean, my wife worked there for over 20 years.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comments and the feedback on my attire. I wear that pullover every other day it seems :)
@rolfnilsson8667
2 жыл бұрын
I have been on the same journey for some time and now I´m so happy with my choice of integrated amplifier. I actually have two now, one Kinki Studio mx-1+ and a ASR Emitter 1 blue. This decision of mine come after having had so many different brands of gears. So if you go for a top of the line model from Luxman or Accuphase, it vill be an amplifier for life. Sure it vill cost some money, but it most certainly will become your best friend in the rack for a long long time. Me, I´m gonna keep the ASR Emitter 1 integrated, sell the Kinki Studio and be as happy as can be, I have now after 60 years as an audiophile found a perfect (for me) combination amp - speaker, to my Q Acoustic Concept 500. The best from Stockholm, Sweden
@auggysimcity
2 жыл бұрын
pass labs int 25.. herron phono stage.. box furniture, or core audio furniture.. you'll be set!... I run a xa 25.. herron linestage..schitt ygdrasill. I'm quite content. Good luck!
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
very nice
@johnsonadekunle7675
8 ай бұрын
A used Boulder 866 with a dac option is a solid option. You’ll need Roon subscription though. Also ARC VSI75 is a good one.
@colanitower
2 жыл бұрын
That seems to be a good choice. A simple, upgradable system. I'm transitioning to something similar. Got rid of tapes, cassettes, LPs and CDs after digitizing. Tape deck gone, cassette deck gone, turntables gone. Just digital source, good amplifier, DAC and speakers remain. For integrated amp upgrade I'm considering the Denon PMA-A110 or a used Accuphase or Luxman. Maybe Wharfedale Elysian 4 for speakers but they've doubled in price recently. If the amplifier comes with no DAC, the RME ADI-2 FS DAC is a good candidate for a DAC upgrade.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
I hear the RME makes a good preamp as well
@colanitower
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 They do, mostly for professional purposes. The DACs can function as preamps as well and RME is known for their long-term software upgrades to all their devices. However, in the consumer DAC world RME is good, and it's very good value for money, but it's not top-of-the-line like Denafrips Terminator, Holo May or Chord Dave.
@alhopper2480
2 жыл бұрын
Advice - for what it's worth - stay away from components with slide-in "upgradable" cards/modules. I did that years ago (I can't even remember the equipment brand) and the promised upgrade cards never came to market. Now think about this for a Second - if you're a manufacturer, making this type of gear - which is usually serving a small market - and you really intend to follow through on your "future proof" promise - what is the size of that market? Given that only a percentage of owners will actually buy the upgraded card/module - will you even cover the NRE (Non Recurring Engineering) costs of developing that upgrade. Especially when it would make more sense to put those engineering hours into developing a new product.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
That is one red flag. Plus, the "slide in modules" can be twice as expensive as an equivalent outboard dac.
@imammarc
2 жыл бұрын
Curiously I seem to be going the opposite route. I have not only broken my system up into more components but now I have several systems in different rooms. Even the modest system that I have in my bedroom now has a separate preamp and power amp, cd transport and DAC. I do understand what you mean however when it comes to all of the cables. That is one thing that drives me a little bit nuts. I wish there were a way to do better cable management but for now I am enjoying the modular nature of my system so that if I want to change the sound I can simply swap out one component. But I can see where that can become tiring, exhausting, or overly expensive. That new Technics looks tempting! Best of luck on your search.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
In 5 years time, I may go back. Thanks for watching
@imammarc
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 which Luxman are you eyeing?
@1023dwest
2 жыл бұрын
I have Pass intergrated 60. I love it. Mids sounds as good or better than my tube amp. However I can going seperate. I will keep my Pass, but adding an all schitt setup. The new schitt Ty mono blocks are supoose to be aswesome.Adding a Freya Plus and the new balanced Loki. Hoefull this will be end game for me.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
you'll say that for about 3 years then it will be something else...rabbit hole :)
@Kowinaida
2 жыл бұрын
Levinson 585.5 - one stop shop with power.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
They make nice amps...thats for sure
@manuzach
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Dale, nice little story! I’ve been considering the new schiit tyr monoblocks.
@archifi9978
2 жыл бұрын
Every piece of Schiit gear that I've used has been impressive. I'm sure you'll start seeing the TYR reviews pretty soon.
@manuzach
2 жыл бұрын
@@archifi9978 I got a schiitAegir a while back …you can also get a pair and run them as monoblocks 80w a channel into 8ohms …I use the saga pre amp and bifrost DAC
@JurMalafi
2 жыл бұрын
Why not get powered speakers? ATC amplifiers in their speakers are Class A and really make a jump in sound quality. Get an Apogee Duet and a Mac Mini to stream and run Pure Vinyl for your LP playback....Good Luck with getting 2nd tier High End gear like Luxman, McIntosh and Accuphase to sound better with whatever passive speakers you will suffer with. If you want a crazy good integrated you should get familiar with YBA.
@robertorodriguez2609
2 жыл бұрын
yes, there comes a time where stereo "jewelry" starts to lose its appeal
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