My audio system currently consists of Spendor SA1 speakers, an Arcam CD192 cd player and a Marantz PM7003 integrated amp. It's clear to see which component needs upgrading, doesn't it?
Except that I seem to have a case of reversed upgraditis. I have the current system for about a year now, and the intention has always been that I would replace the Marantz with an amplifier that would do more justice to the speakers. But over the last year, I have grown to love my current setup to such an extent that I fear change...
There is only one complaint that makes me want to upgrade: the current system lacks depth of detail. My HT system is based around an Arcam AVR250 and Kef iQ7s, and that system is much more revealing when it comes to details and soundstage. But the arcam/kef combo is just a tad too bright for easy listening. Great for critical listening, though, especially with the Rega DAC that will soon enter the house.
So I have been looking around for a new amp, either power or integrated. But so far, no amp I have heard can match the pleasure/easy listening that the Marantz gives me. I listen to anything except R&B/dance music, which does not make things easier. And anything is really anything, from classical (chamber music more than orchestral) to heavy rock (Deep Purple, Porcupine Tree) and from jazz (Bill Evans, Yellowjackets) to folk (Capercaillie, Miriam Stockley).
Here is what I have heard so far:
Primare (I30): great, expansive soundstage. Little fatiguing for me though
Exposure (3010s2): way too forward/bright. Was almost painful to listen to
Rega (Elicit): great sound. Amp seemed underpowered though, piano sounds had no attack at all (maybe too smooth?)
Creek (Destiny): very balanced, detailed. dull sound though, completely lifeless
Most on this forum seem to recommend Naim with Spendor, however I have not been able to find a Naim dealer in my area. Other usual suspects still on my list are Arcam FMJ series and (of course) Marantz premium, maybe Pearl or PM11. Haven't been able to arrange demos yet. So, am I looking for a holy grail here, or am I simply focusing on the wrong brands? I would love to hear other recommendations. Budget is up to €1500
Except that I seem to have a case of reversed upgraditis. I have the current system for about a year now, and the intention has always been that I would replace the Marantz with an amplifier that would do more justice to the speakers. But over the last year, I have grown to love my current setup to such an extent that I fear change...
There is only one complaint that makes me want to upgrade: the current system lacks depth of detail. My HT system is based around an Arcam AVR250 and Kef iQ7s, and that system is much more revealing when it comes to details and soundstage. But the arcam/kef combo is just a tad too bright for easy listening. Great for critical listening, though, especially with the Rega DAC that will soon enter the house.
So I have been looking around for a new amp, either power or integrated. But so far, no amp I have heard can match the pleasure/easy listening that the Marantz gives me. I listen to anything except R&B/dance music, which does not make things easier. And anything is really anything, from classical (chamber music more than orchestral) to heavy rock (Deep Purple, Porcupine Tree) and from jazz (Bill Evans, Yellowjackets) to folk (Capercaillie, Miriam Stockley).
Here is what I have heard so far:
Primare (I30): great, expansive soundstage. Little fatiguing for me though
Exposure (3010s2): way too forward/bright. Was almost painful to listen to
Rega (Elicit): great sound. Amp seemed underpowered though, piano sounds had no attack at all (maybe too smooth?)
Creek (Destiny): very balanced, detailed. dull sound though, completely lifeless
Most on this forum seem to recommend Naim with Spendor, however I have not been able to find a Naim dealer in my area. Other usual suspects still on my list are Arcam FMJ series and (of course) Marantz premium, maybe Pearl or PM11. Haven't been able to arrange demos yet. So, am I looking for a holy grail here, or am I simply focusing on the wrong brands? I would love to hear other recommendations. Budget is up to €1500