What are good inter graded amps like Rotel and NAD that cost less?

Question

I am looking for a inter graded amp that sounds good for under 300 bucks. even possibly $250.00 I don't know much about what other brands are out there that are good for beginners. I thought about the NAD C 316BEE but it's only 40 watts. A rotel dealer quoted me 1,000 for a 65 watt per channel amp. I would like to check out other brands though to compare. The prices to buy some older nad amps are just as high as some of the newer models. I can't see myself spending that much on a used nad amp. I would rather have the warranty. please name me some other brands to check out.

Answer 1

Your looking in the right direction, integrated amplifier is the best choice in the lower price range if quality music reproduction is your goal. Also don't be fooled by power ratings, that 40 watt NAD will out power receivers rated much higher than that, its also quality of power over quantity of power.



That 40 watt NAD will probably deliver 75 watts into 4 ohms, and 140 into 2 ohms, Not many receivers can drive 2 ohm loads, so ultimately that little NAD will not only have better sound quality (because of better parts) but will be able to drive lower impedance loads, and deliver more current to better drive speakers.



Ultimately the speakers determine the amount of power needed, as well as the size of the room and how loud you want to play it. Tell the dealer what speakers you have, and he can tell you how much power you really need.



Again it always comes back to quality of power over quantity of power



Get the NAD you'll love it.



Kevin

40 years high end audio video specialist

Answer 2

You get what you pay for. If you spend less than what a NAD or Rotel costs to buy, then you will no doubt get an inferior product. Frankly, NAD probably offers the best bang for the buck in entry-level electronics. If you need to save up more cash to buy into it, that's the way it is. If you can't wait, then there's lots of lower-priced (but lower quality) gear out there. Take your pick.

Answer 3

Keep in mind that stand alone power amplifier are mainly for the higher end of the audio system and they are expensive. You can look at ebay and see if someone is selling an older model. The only one that I know of is Onkyo, which go can find at Fry's Electronic. You can also look at a stereo receiver, and look at brands like Pioneer and Onkyo. Hope this will help you out.

Answer 4

How about Crown?



http://www.amazon.com/Crown-XLS1000-Amplifier-integrated-Crossover/dp/B003HZPKSM/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1326847149&sr=1-1