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April 29, 2012 - 7:53pm
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bierfeldt
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Joined: Oct 26 2007 - 2:30pm
Looking for a value integrated amp....am considering a Yamaha. Thoughts?

I am putting together an inexpensive system for my living room.  100% audio, will run a CD player, tuner, ipod dock and a turntable eventually.  An MM amp will be just fine and I would prefer a subwoofer output.  I am powering a set of B&W M1s with a Mirage Omni S8 sub.  My nominal budget is ~$500 and would like to see about 80w of power into 8ohms.  I was looking at the Yamaha A-S500.  Any thoughts on the Yamaha and any other suggetions? 

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April 30, 2012 - 7:22am
jackfish
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Joined: Dec 19 2005 - 2:42pm
I'd seriously consider finding a deal on the

Harman Kardon HK3490. Substantial power, flexible inputs, subwoofer output, a decent DAC, and a passable MM phono stage. They often come up for sale for around $300; looks like they are backordered most places right now at $449 though.

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April 30, 2012 - 11:14am
bierfeldt
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I did a lot of reading....

and have more questions.  The HK3490 seems hugely popular and gets solid reviews and a few places have them in stock. The real question is whether I am making a smart decision looking at this entry point device. My gut tells me I should be spending about the same amount of money on my power source/integrated amp as I did on the speakers which is approximately $900 including the sub.  Am I wrongminded in thinking that and would I be overspending with a slightly higher end amp?  Will the difference be noticeable through those B&W M-1s? 

 

That would have me looking at the REGA Brio R, the Marantz PM 8004, the Yamaha A-S 700 and the  NAD 356 BEE.  I am really torn between those 4 as I have very favorable experience or history with all four companies / brands. 

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