Amplifier upgrade advice!

[p_m_brown]

Hi guys and gals

I thought I would pick your brains as I am after an upgrade to my ageing system which consists of an old Pro-Ject debut turntable, a 90's Nad 302 amp, a Marantz CD6000ose and some newly acquired Kef R100 speakers.The Kefs have added to the clarity and insight I really like as well as giving me a much bigger soundstage and better bass compared to my old mission 772s.
After tweaking my current system with new speaker cable (chord rumour), interconnects (cameleon) and of course the Kefs, I think the amp is the weak link and need some direction! I am lucky enough to have a farily healthy budget and have been looking at the Rotel RA1520, the new Arcam A19 and the far more expensive Heed Obelisk. If I go for the Rotel or Arcam, I will be able to upgrade my turntable to a Rega RP3 but would I be silly to ignore a high end amp like the Heed?I listen to all sorts on cd and vinyl, from Bat For Lashes (electronica) to Russian Circles (alt rock) at decent volumes in a 17x15ft lounge. Help! Many thanks in advance...

 

[kev g]

If that was me I would get the Rega RP3 & audition the Rotel & Arcam amps.

 

[p_m_brown]

That's kind of where my head is at. I should be able to do those demos at my local Sevenoaks but they don't stock the Heed.

I am still curious about the Heed or similar priced units so I have a decent upgrade path in the future. Thoughts?

 

[p_m_brown]

Afternoon all,

Just thought I would update you on the upgrade stakes following a bit of a bargain though the 'bay!

My new kef r100s have really been suffering on the end of my old and beloved Nad 302 but all has been restored with my latest acquisitions, an Arcam A28 amp and CD17 player. To my ears, sounds like a night and day difference - far better bass depth, punch and control, more top end sparkle/detail and a way bigger soundstage. I know a lot of you don't rate Arcam but this setup in my room sounds exquisite AND exciting!

Hope you have all had as much fun as I have so far this weekend! :cheers:

 

[matthewpiano]

Arcam pairs very well with KEF, and the A28 is a very capable amp. Hope you continue to enjoy!

 

[p_m_brown]

Well I am certainly impressed so far. So much so that I may lay off the upgrades for at least a couple of weeks!

Odessey spk cable next I think. Would there be much difference (apart from my wallet being a lot lighter) if I biwire the Kefs with the 2 speaker outs on the A28?

 

[jjbomber]

I've heard the Heed Obelisk with the Kef LS50s and they were superb together. I would definately give them an audition. The source was the Bryston CD player, but that was just north of £2,000. Amazing sound.