I like the simplicity of an integrated amp based system. Like the last couple of posts, I have had the opportunity to listen to many very good sounding integrateds including the newer McIntosh models, Vitus, Dartzeel, ARC, Shindo and Simaudio, among others.
My favorite though, and the one I bought, is the VAC Sigma 160 with optional Balanced input and MC phonostage. In my opinion, Kevin Hayes at VAC has managed to blend much of the magic of his pricey and well regarded separates in a very compelling small integrated format.
To my ears, he has managed to marry the resolution, bass control, speed and such that people usually associate with good SS amps with the liquidity, holography, lack of digital artifact and flow that folks generally associate with good tube amps in one package.
This amp has been the heart of my modest main 2 channel system for almost a year now and I am really enjoying it. I would highly recommend an audition to anyone in the market for a good quality integrated amp.
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