Budget Cambridge Audio Amp Questions..

[admin_exported]

Hey, I've been looking for a budget hi-fi system for a while now and can't make up my mind. I was sort of set on Audioengine A5's but really wanted some 'proper' hi-fi but for the same sort of price (£250). I get the gist that some Tannoy Mercury F1 Customs will sound better, but then I don't have much cash left for amps etc.

Are budget amps like the Cambridge Audio A1 Version 3, Cambridge Audio A5 and Cambridge Audio AZUR 340A worth having?

Also if I only really want to play from my iPod or Mac can I do without a CD player and just plug straight into the amp?

Finally, would a budget setup like this definitely sound better than just some Audioengine A5s?

Any help is much appreciated.

 

[Anonymous]

I've heard the A1. It's a cracking little amp, indistinguishable to my ears at medium volume from my Primare. When you play it loud, well that's a rather different story, it sounds a little confused.

 

[Anonymous]

That's good to hear as that amp plus speakers comes to around £160, £90 less than the Audioengines.

 

[vinod_david]

The CA 340A is a cracking amp, very musical indeed when partnered with MS 902i or Tannoy F1 BS. I heard the whole setup and liked it very much. If you want a budget setup, look no further.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks. So can I just plug my iPod/Mac into the amp with the right cable and be off, or must I also purchase a CD player and plug things into that?

 

[Anonymous]

Is it just a 3.5mm - RCA connector that I need?

 

[Anonymous]

Manic Inc:Is it just a 3.5mm - RCA connector that I need?

Yes. The Chord iChord comes highly recommended.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks a lot, I'll be buying the 340A SE then. In fact it has a 3.5mm input on the front which the cheaper CA models don't so I already have the cables needed.

Cheers to all comments.

 

[Anonymous]

Brian123:
Manic Inc:Is it just a 3.5mm - RCA connector that I need?

Yes. The Chord iChord comes highly recommended.

At £50? You can buy 20 on Ebay for that.