Howdy. After a boring integrated amp. Very short wishlist: - An old-school analogue volume knob. I loathe audible volume steps. - Compact-ish. Anything that isn't a classic HT monster will suffice. - A couple of analogue input channels. - Headphone and speaker outs. - No ****ing fans. - <$500, ideally Doesn't need to be anywhere near audiophile grade beyond that nice volume knob, as it'll just be mediating digital media for the time being. I feel I may be better off buying something old, but not sure if there are any particular models to keep an eye out for. Any suggestions?
I use a yamaha WXA-50 in one room of my house - Overall it doesn't fit your requirements but it is a modern/compact amp with what I'd call a smooth sounding volume knob, even changing the volume on it with the remote I use is bordering on painfully slow. I think it's set at 0.5dB steps...
I have a Technics SU-V3 "New Class A" amp. I don't get to use it much but sounds pretty good driving average speakers
I've got an Onkyo TX-NR609 but it's in the typical HT form factor. I suspect the volume dial is digital but the increments are so small it's difficult to pick up.
You can get lots of value for money with a vintage amplifier. Under that budget you can get a nice Sansui.
Keep an eye on Len Wallis Audio traded section, http://www.lenwallisaudio.com/products/secondhand-products/amplification While some of the amps listed might seem expencive,, there all very reasonably priced compaired to new, All come with a 3 month warranty There's a NAD C320 on there at the moment for a give away price, that would meet all your needs As your in Melbourne there might be something to suit you at HI Fi Exchange http://www.hifiexchange.com.au/
Running a Cambridge Audio Azur 351A. Pretty happy with it. It's 'shorter' than most amps, so fits in our TV cabinet with beathing room. Only annoyance is that the power is a physical switch, so you can't us an IR remote to power on/off. https://www.whathifi.com/cambridge-audio/azur-351a/review
