Found the as, and sort of remember that seller from a previous item I was considering. He does have a good reputation. But he does not take PayPal. So I would be very uncomfortable sending someone 5 or 6 large with no protection. I would have to have an AK friend pick it up and and verify it's operation.
Regards
Mister Pig
Yes, I even considered asking if any AKers in his area would do that, but it seemed like a lot to ask. And when I considered offering that extra hundred, I knew we were going to need to discuss another way of paying - and the way his ad is worded, I wasn't certain at all that he'd be amenable to that. His feedback is so good that I was tempted, but it's a lot of money with which to trust a stranger on the net. Oh, well, moving on...
Shopping for a good integrated amp has really required me to think out where I want to go with my system, my goals:
better SQ
higher WAF re: using the system
better construction quality of amp system
a compatible home network, so I can
eliminate the clunk - my three 400-disc Sony players
So I was looking at integrated amps that will accommodate my current needs - while I should be giving more consideration to my needs in the near future. Things I don't need:
HT bypass - a non-issue for me
RIAA input - another non-issue
So I want a digital-source based system, but also want at least two unbal analog inputs for a Sony XDR-F1HD am/fm tuner and a spare for whatever. Maybe I'll plug my Integra cassette deck in just for anachronistic fun, since I'll have all this space from eliminating the CD players (huge beasts x three).
It seems as though almost all the components of this type updated configuration benefit greatly via the use of smart-phones or tablets, and I have been bragging for years about the fact that we only use a land-line phone, so it would seem a tablet is preferable for me to control file playback, and other functions of a networked device. I guess.
And that is where I become stuck. Some seem to simply use their PCs to accomplish these things, while others buy a network music player (NMP). With the goal to rip all my CDs to lossless (and what is the easiest way to do that?), I am very fuzzy on how to get there, and what I need to purchase. Do I need to figure this out before purchasing an amp? Seems logical.
I am tempted to order a McIntosh MA5200 right now and call it good. Fits the current budget.
Or should I first maybe order an NMP and get that set up?
For control, what tablet, if any?
And there seem to be other ways to configure a home network using other types of devices. What type I should be considering to accomplish my goals of streamlining the system, making it easier to use without having 8 or 9 remote controls at hand thus at least giving SWMBOA (she who must be ordered about - she doesn't peruse AK, so I'll live) a shot at figuring it out, is a major consideration.
Other integrated amps I've found which interest me, beginning with the
Mark Levinson No. 585
Vinnie Rossi Lio
Creek Audio Evo 100 w/Ruby DAC
Krell Vanguard
NuPrime IDA-16
Most of these require waiting and saving, which is okay, too, since I have a lot to figure out, and the kitty grows nicely each month. The Creek is a little strange to be in this list, maybe. It certainly is affordable for my budget. However, I am concerned about its reliability, based on Stereophile's review, during which it had functional issues. I like its sleek profile. I also love the look of the equally svelte NuPrime - but with only a single unbal input... affordable, too.
The Vinnie Rossi's modular offerings allow one to better tailor the amp to his needs, and I really like its look and build quality.
Seems I need to talk with a local dealer to see what they offer, and to help me set up what I want.