If the 866 and the Nagra Classic Integrated were the same price, I would buy the Boulder. But that’s me, my tastes, etc. the Nagra may be ever so slightly sweeter, the boulder a bit more dynamic. I find the soundstage and dimensionality of the Boulder more to my liking. Added to the equation thought that the Boulder has a top notch streamer, dac and more modern user interface. I just love the Nagra aesthetic though...like a classic Rolex sportswatch. Every cell phone keeps better time but there’s something about a Daytona you know?
I will refrain though from calling the Boulder warm or rich. Its on the warm side of dead neutral but if you are looking for a solid state amp with set tube qualities, stop looking or get the Pass/Luxman/Accuphase/Sugden. The Boulder is a significant achievement, a serious instrument and yet it is smooth and non fatiguing. Go listen. Listen for a while, listen to familiar music on familiar ancillaries. Its really, really a fine amplifier.
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