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February 1, 2011 - 10:06am
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Looking for an entry level amp to go with Rega RP1 and PSB Alpha B1 Bookshelf Speakers
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The Marantz PM5004 would be a good possibility. As well as the NAD C326BEE or C316BEE, Cambridge Audio 350A, and Music Hall A15.2. With some of these you would need a phono preamp. You might also look into the Jungson JA-88E hybrid integrated for $575. I heard one driving a pair of PSB Image T5s and it was quite nice. It can be used as a preamp in the future if you upgrade amplification.
Could you swing a Rega Brio? (about $700). You wouldn't need a phono preamp with that. If not, the Marantz 5004 or one of the Cambridge or NAD amps in the same price range would be good. Another even less expensive option might be an Onkyo stereo receiver, but it's been a while since I've heard one--especially with a good system--but I remember their being fairly decent. I doubt it would be in the same league as the Rega, Cambridge or Marantz, however.
If there are good used stores around, you may want to check them out. I found an old Rotel amp and preamp in such a store for a pretty reasonable price. It lasted for a long time. I even used them with both PSB Alphas (the original design) and Paradigm 5SEs.
Hi,
Thanks for your replies. My brother just gave me his fully functional classic NAD 3020b which is over 20 years old. Do you know if I would be able to connect the Rega RP1 and the PSB Alpha B1 speakers to this amp or is that just too crazy? I guess I am worried about 2 things: first, can that amp power the PSB bookshelf speakers and seconds would I be able to connect the truntable to the back of this amp?
Thanks again.
The NAD 3020B has phono inputs and will drive those loudspeakers adequately. It was a sound unit back in its day so should be servicable for you until you get something new.