sunvalleylaw
Addicted Member
Interested in a larger (over 100/side, more likely between 150 and 200 unless it is tube) pre-amp/power amp or integrated set up to drive something like the Dahlquist m907's or DQM-5/5c's. I recently purchased a Music Hall Mambo Class A (50w per side class A) which will form the basis for my office set up, ultimately, and would like something with similar characteristics but larger for my main system. Formerly, I was a Denon DRA guy, but in comparison with the Mambo, my Denons now sound overwarm, blanket-like, lacking in depth, detail and clarity, etc. Was considering a Marantz or similar, but would have to pay too much to get enough power, and think I might like a more detailed sound from what I have been reading about in discussions of the Marantz stuff. Seems like an amp is the way to go.
I would like something that would open up/control the larger speakers in a similar way that the Mambo does for my DQM-5's. New contenders would be something like the NAD 388 or the Rogue Sphinx. But I don't want to spend that much (nor would I be able to get spending authority for that much).
So, what can you guys recommend? Integrated is great but amp/preamp is ok.
In addition to the sound characteristics, I would enjoy (but not mandatory)
*either nice looking meters or some tube glow. For example, I liked the Proton pictured below in terms of looks, though wit would not perform the way I wanted.
*A few analog inputs, and maybe an optical (optional). But internal DAC is really optional.
*Phone stage would be nice.
*Budget would be total around $500-600. (could ultimately be bumped a little to add external DAC or phono stage)
*Vintage is fine if it works. Newer used is ok too. Such as my Music Hall. It is 13-14 years old, but not 30 years old.
EDIT:
I also realize it is a balancing act, and that I may not get optical or other more modern features (that was intended to be an added bonus rather than requirement, if it were possible), and that the asks (rather than requirements) may not all be met.
Part of the point of the thread for me (I am going to put this up in the OP to be more clear) is to learn more about good clean used power and good options in used gear considering sound first, and bang for the buck, both older/vintage, and not as old, so I can start to keep my eyes open for options as I am out in the world and run across stuff. I sure appreciate learning from you all.
Frankly, if something existed that sounded like my Music Hall with a little more power, that would be really cool. But again, I will have to see what the m907's sound like with it if I get them. Perhaps the Music Hall is enough, then it is just a matter of getting something nice for the office to drive the DQM-5's. But humor me as I would love to learn about anyone's thoughts or suggestions. END EDIT.
I would like something that would open up/control the larger speakers in a similar way that the Mambo does for my DQM-5's. New contenders would be something like the NAD 388 or the Rogue Sphinx. But I don't want to spend that much (nor would I be able to get spending authority for that much).
So, what can you guys recommend? Integrated is great but amp/preamp is ok.
In addition to the sound characteristics, I would enjoy (but not mandatory)
*either nice looking meters or some tube glow. For example, I liked the Proton pictured below in terms of looks, though wit would not perform the way I wanted.
*A few analog inputs, and maybe an optical (optional). But internal DAC is really optional.
*Phone stage would be nice.
*Budget would be total around $500-600. (could ultimately be bumped a little to add external DAC or phono stage)
*Vintage is fine if it works. Newer used is ok too. Such as my Music Hall. It is 13-14 years old, but not 30 years old.
EDIT:
I also realize it is a balancing act, and that I may not get optical or other more modern features (that was intended to be an added bonus rather than requirement, if it were possible), and that the asks (rather than requirements) may not all be met.
Part of the point of the thread for me (I am going to put this up in the OP to be more clear) is to learn more about good clean used power and good options in used gear considering sound first, and bang for the buck, both older/vintage, and not as old, so I can start to keep my eyes open for options as I am out in the world and run across stuff. I sure appreciate learning from you all.
Frankly, if something existed that sounded like my Music Hall with a little more power, that would be really cool. But again, I will have to see what the m907's sound like with it if I get them. Perhaps the Music Hall is enough, then it is just a matter of getting something nice for the office to drive the DQM-5's. But humor me as I would love to learn about anyone's thoughts or suggestions. END EDIT.
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