New amp dilema

Pedro2

Well-known member
Nov 29, 2010
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Need some advice on amplifier upgrade. I've been using a Roksan Kandy Liii power with Creek OBH12 passive for the last 4 years. Although generally pleased with the results, I've become restless recently and begun to wonder about the alleged downside of passive pre's - some believe they 'restrict' transients and reduce musical enjoyment. Must say that the system needs driving quite hard to really appreciate it.

I'm considering replacement with a new integrated but what? The choice is big. Budget max around £1700. Considered Roksan Caspian, Musical Fidelity M3, Leema Pulse (one of offer at Sevenoaks for £700), Primare I30 etc.

Source is SBT into Audio GD Dac.

Speakers Neat Motive 2 SE.

DNM speaker cables and interconnects

Room is quite small (5mx5m), low ceiling, thick stone walls.

Any thoughts gratefully appreciated. Thanks.
 
Hi Pedro2 I have the m6i which I love I listen to all sorts of music and it delivers on every level although I mainly listen to rock metle and blues the m3i has the same sound as the m6i I listened to the caspian m2 and the lema at £3800 cannot remember model and for me m6i hit the spot good luck in your search🙂 🙂
 
Thanks Toyota Man.

I've read some favourable reviews of the M3i and will try to arrange a home audition if possible.

Our taste in music is slightly different with some classical thrown in with the rock, pop and jazz. The rock is not too heavy (Allman Bros, Lynyrd Skynyrd and a ZZ Top cd all bought recently). My better half also listens to music on the system and actually takes some interest in any changes that are being made or planned for (although the volume goes up when it's only me around).

I'm looking forward to hearing a 'different' balance, having messed about with wires and changed the dac over the last couple of years. One thing which may work well is the mix of the amp with the Neat speakers. They have a slightly recessed sound stage and I've read that the m3i is quite punchy. The review also had the amp paired with Neat speakers.

Will update with any results if I get hold of one.

😉
 
Pedro2, I don't know where you are located, but Audio Emotion in Scotland have a pre-owned M3i on their website. £649 so a good saving on the new price. (I have absolutely no links with the dealer at all but noticed this whilst browsing their website).
 
Thanks matthewpiano,

We live in the Peak District so not really on the doorstep to the Scottish store you mention. I also need to hear the amp before purchase and I'm hoping to arrange a home audition. If this isn't possible, I'll just do my best with an in-store demo.

I've taken one or two risks in the past with buying kit unheard (Audio Gd Dac being one) but this time, I'm definitely going to hear before buying. I'm also got some holiday time coming up in a couple of weeks and will enjoy the challenge, especially if it keeps on raining as forecast!
 

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