U6astik
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System: Harman Kardon HK 990 (?) + PSB Synchrony One + Oppo-95 + Music Hall MMF 9.1
jackfish
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The Anthem 225 integrated has enough power and a phono stage that would do until you get something different. However, I'd look into the new Emotiva XSP-1 preamp with a pair of XPA-1s. For $2,900 you would get a fully differential system, a really good phono section, and ungodly power to drive the PSB Synchrony Ones. If you need a digital input, get a DAC.

U6astik
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Digital inputs offer flexibility. And a four-in-one box is a good and simple thing for a newbie.

I wouldn't like to buy separately all the equipment needed - pre, power, phono, DAC (I am not even talking about combining products of different brands), although I understand, that it would me much more comfortable to place pre- and sources near the armchair and the power amps next to speakers not to run back and forth when you need to adjust volume or change a CD.

Judging from the pictures, Anthem 225 does not have separate MC-MM inputs, no digital inputs, it doesn't permit bi-wiring. So, I would definitely need a DAC to listen to music from Colorfly C4 for example.

Emotiva XSP-1 looks like a nice piece of equipment from behind, but also no bi-wiring option. Same for digital inputs :(  BTW, I didn't find the XSP-1 on Emotiva site.

Moreover, I don't seem to like the style of the two models mentioned above. It's not the main clue, but still...

Have you listened to HK990? How would you characterize its sound? What are its cons?

Kal Rubinson
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Review here:  http://www.stereophile.com/content/harman-kardon-hk-990-integrated-amplifier

Kal Rubinson
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Review here:  http://www.stereophile.com/content/harman-kardon-hk-990-integrated-amplifier

 

U6astik
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I have read the review on HK990 on Stereophile, the review is really great.

But, in review it was driving the 7T and I am not sure how will it sound with the PSB-s sad

That's why I am asking for people's opinion on HK990 - mainly, does it have enough "warmness" to eliminate the PSBs' peaks at mid- and high-treble.

Kal Rubinson
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It is not an EQ nor should you choose an amp to be one.  It will certainly drive the PSBs as handily as it drove the 7T (or the B&Ws).  If you are set on the PSBs (which are excellent), then it is because you like the way they sound, test measurements notwithstanding.  What will have a great impact on the sound of the PSBs are your room's acoustics and your setup choices, not the amp.  

(OTOH, the 990 has an eq that you can choose to implement.)

U6astik
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Thank you very much for your reply.

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