Hello all,
I'd really appreciate your input on a couple of questions I have.
I am looking to leave my one-box system and enter the world of separates. I recently inherited a large vinyl collection so the primary source will be a turntable however I will also add streaming capability later - probably test the waters with a Chromecast Audio then upgrade to a Bluesound Node.
I listened to a few combinations over Christmas and am considering the Project Xpression UKX, Arcam A19 and either the Q Acoustics Concept 20 (with matching weighted stands) or the Monitor Audio Bronze 5. The current sale offers make the Concept 20s very attractive however I dont mind spending a bit extra for the Bronze 5s - I loved the extra bass they bring to the soundstage.
My first question concerns the Arcam/Speaker combo; are these speakers too 'budget' for the A19? Should I spend less on the turntable (perhaps opt for the Debut Carbon) and spend more on speakers?
My second question concerns alternatives to the Arcam. I recently read about the Audiolab 8200a which is now discontinued. I see dealers are offloading ex-display units for as little as £350. I understand the circuit design is dated compared to the Arcam, and I read in another thread that the pre-amp stage is a bit of a let down. But this was still a £700 amp not too long ago so I imagine drawbacks are in comparison to other amplifiers in the same price range. I also like the idea of the upgrade paths available with the various power-amp options, and independant dealers offering circuitry upgrades.
Unfortunately, I cannot find a dealer near me with an 8200a to demo. Aside from not having a phone stage, does anyone know how the 8200a compares to the A19? What is the difference in delivery? Is the 8200a better value or should I stick to what I have heard and liked?
For reference I mainly listen to Indie, Rock and Acoustic. My listening area is 4m x 4m.
Thanks in advance.
I'd really appreciate your input on a couple of questions I have.
I am looking to leave my one-box system and enter the world of separates. I recently inherited a large vinyl collection so the primary source will be a turntable however I will also add streaming capability later - probably test the waters with a Chromecast Audio then upgrade to a Bluesound Node.
I listened to a few combinations over Christmas and am considering the Project Xpression UKX, Arcam A19 and either the Q Acoustics Concept 20 (with matching weighted stands) or the Monitor Audio Bronze 5. The current sale offers make the Concept 20s very attractive however I dont mind spending a bit extra for the Bronze 5s - I loved the extra bass they bring to the soundstage.
My first question concerns the Arcam/Speaker combo; are these speakers too 'budget' for the A19? Should I spend less on the turntable (perhaps opt for the Debut Carbon) and spend more on speakers?
My second question concerns alternatives to the Arcam. I recently read about the Audiolab 8200a which is now discontinued. I see dealers are offloading ex-display units for as little as £350. I understand the circuit design is dated compared to the Arcam, and I read in another thread that the pre-amp stage is a bit of a let down. But this was still a £700 amp not too long ago so I imagine drawbacks are in comparison to other amplifiers in the same price range. I also like the idea of the upgrade paths available with the various power-amp options, and independant dealers offering circuitry upgrades.
Unfortunately, I cannot find a dealer near me with an 8200a to demo. Aside from not having a phone stage, does anyone know how the 8200a compares to the A19? What is the difference in delivery? Is the 8200a better value or should I stick to what I have heard and liked?
For reference I mainly listen to Indie, Rock and Acoustic. My listening area is 4m x 4m.
Thanks in advance.