[dburna]

For a number of reasons, I am doing some long-term research on obtaining a SS integrated amp with a much smaller footprint.  Primarily, I am looking for input from someone who has compared the following two amps:

1. Clones 25iR integrated
2. DAC Stereo Maraschino (STM) integrated

As a larger (secondary) question, I am open to hearing about other SS amps that are:
1) Around/under $1500 (new/used)
2) 25 or more watts (more power is always nice, but I don't need tons of it -- speakers are 96dB/8 ohms)
3) Will fit on a smallish table top; if it is full form-factor, I might need to stack a D-to-A converter on top eventually
4) Sound quality is paramount -- don't need a lot of bells-&-whistles....though those are always appreciated.
5) I can make both/either XLR or RCA inputs work

Other options I am considering:
1) Odyssey Audio Cyclops
2) Belles Aria integrated (used, of course)

Any thoughts?  Has anyone compared the Clones and the STM Maraschino?  I have had an AudioSector amp before and liked (but not sure I loved) it.  Is the Clones an improvement on the typical Gianclone sound profile?

Thanks for your input,  -dB

P.S. Didn't think this was appropriate for the DAC Circle since it is about comparing competitors.

[groovybassist]

dburna:

I have the Clones 25iR and think it's a great little amp - more than meets the eye.  I've driven Fritz, ATC and Harbeth with it, with no problems at all (I listen at moderate volume, but to a variety of music).  Haven't heard the Maraschino, so no help there.

You might also want to consider the Heed Elixir - has gotten some good press, and fits your budget/requirements.  ZeroFidelity has done a youtube review and there's a fair amount of reviews online.

Good luck!

[2oldcranks]

Hi I will be short and to the point as my suggestion is outside you orig ?
April Music Aura Note 2

I wont try to sell ya,read online.
Good DAC
Good CD player
B&O ice class D amp
computer inputs

I have used the AMAN2 with Tekton M-lores modded Klipsch Forte 2s,dynaudio Focus 160s and now Tyler Taylo monitors.
THIS IS A GREAT LITTLE ALL IN ONE.
Right now enjoying Black Dub cd,Trixie Whitley and Daniel Lanios sound SUPERB
If it fits your needs it sounds GREAT and looks sublime

Check it out
Peace

[Letitroll98]

Well 2oldcranks went over your budget (they do have a cheaper model), so a suggestion a little under, the NuPrime IDA-8 is only $995 and includes a DAC and phono preamp.  Small form factor, 100 watts, no balanced connections.  Owners appear very happy and they have a circle here on AC.

[I.Greyhound Fan]

Consider a Hegel H80 or the better H160.  A used H80 will run about $1200 and the H160 about $1800-$2200. They have a pretty good built in DAC as well along with a small foot print.

H80 is 75 wpc at 8 ohms and 125 at 4

H160 is 150 and 250.

Both have RCA and XLR.

Reviews are excellent

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/hegel-h80-integrated-amplifier/


The new Peachtree Nova 150 is another fine product

[Doublej]

When you say small form factor I think Brio, Cyrus, Bel Canto, Teac, NAD, and Wyred for Sound.

PS Audio has one called the Sprout but I don't think it is tuned for audiophiles.

There are also a few full width slim integrateds from Creek, Music Hall, Arcam, Rega and NAD.

[Doublej]

Double Post

[I.Greyhound Fan]

When you say small form factor I think Brio, Cyrus, Bel Canto, Teac, NAD, and Wyred for Sound.

PS Audio has one called the Sprout but I don't think it is tuned for audiophiles.

There are also a few full width slim integrateds from Creek, Music Hall, Arcam, Rega and NAD.

The Sprout is supposed to be excellent sounding but low power.

[artur9]

I had a Belles Hot Rod 150 amplifier.  I sold it over a year ago and I still wonder if that was a mistake.

You should definitely give the Aria a listen.

[2oldcranks]

The aprils go for under 1500 used,think there is one on Agon now for 1200 or so.
same as I paid,and it does hold its own in any regard

I just ASSumed used was a better bet
You have ALOT of choices thats for sure

Peace

[Delta77]

I’m listening to my Odyssey Stratos right now,
I pulled out the Candela preamp..3 days ago , really not missing anything..!
     (OPPO 205 ,to Stratos amp,  to Tektons..)
No pre amp just the OPPO ,, I’m sure it gets better , but I am very happy with what I got..!