Hybrid Amp Replacement Recommendation

[ritchie]

Hi all,

I'm starting to look at the possibility of replacing my Luxman LV-105. I primarily play CDs using a Sony DVD with RCA connectors, nothing to write home about, but provides good clarity in my opinion. I also use an FM tuner with RCA connectors. I've got an inexpensive Bluetooth adapter with an 1/8" plug that I've adapted to RCA. I'm starting to look at setting up digital streaming sources, but haven't settled on anything.

With the Luxman on the bench, I've been using a Yamaha CA-410II to drive a pair of Klipsch Fortes. I also have a pair of Klipsch Heresy II's that I plan on bringing in to the setup. Having gone back and forth between the Luxman and the Yamaha, I can say that the Luxman has much more definition, separation, clarity, and sounds closer to live. The Yamaha has more punch and deeper bass, but I'm not really looking for that at this point in my life.

I'm looking for something that gives that detail that's missing in the Yamaha. Assume I'm keeping these speakers, but could potentially swap out some or all of the sources. Prefer analog/rotary selectors like on the Yamaha. Doesn't have to be an integrated amp, but these seem to have a lower cost of entry. Doesn't have to have as much power as the Luxman, just needs to power all four speakers at a reasonable volume. Must be safe to have in the presence of a small child. Must have at least three pair of RCA inputs. Must be something that isn't fiddly, isn't a project, and doesn't require anything more than infrequent maintenance.

What would you recommend as a replacement for this Luxman? Looking for recommendations for something AK users have actually listened to, not just something that looks good on paper.

What would you recommend at under $1,000 USD? Could anything well under that price point fit the bill?

What would you recommend, going for broke? Not looking for the highest-end, most powerful system here, just curious as to what would be the best match for these requirements if money were not a factor. There's little to no chance I'm going to spend more than this budget.

Thanks in advance!

 

[StimpyWan]

For something not fiddly, I'd suggest new. And for a new hybrid amp, in budget, I'd then suggest something from Vincent Audio. Their SV 500 amp should meet most of your requirements (no Speaker A/B). But it does offer digital inputs. Vincent gear gets constantly positive reviews, even in the press, and I'm personally looking at some their power amps too.

SV 500

 

[StimpyWan]

Some Vincent feedback from AK members.

Vincent

 

[Old Guy8]

Maybe a used Rogue Sphinx, hybrid integrated. They are currently on version 3. Changes have been evolutionary. Only one set speakers. No tone controls. Remote optional. Good press reviews. Phono plus three inputs. No Bluetooth or dac built in.
I have V1. More power than your Klipsch need. 12au7 pair would likely last for years. Detail can be changed with tube choice.
Never gets more than faintly warm above tubes.

 

[StimpyWan]

There's a Version 1 Rogue Sphinx up on eBay now (not mine). It's under your budget, and would be a very good amp. Upgrade-able too, at Rogue, to the latest version, if desired?

 

[ritchie]

@StimpyWan thanks very much for looking, I was looking at a couple Sphinx for sale earlier today at HiFiheaven.net .

I was able to restore my Luxman with several more cycles of cleaning and lubing the pots, so replacement is now on the back burner.

I appreciate the information though!