Amplifier for under £150

Makhaira · 27 Mar 2016 at 16:05

Just thought I'd see what views were out there, I'm looking to replace a failing amp hooked up to a pair of Technics SB-X100 speakers, ideally not spending more than 150. Three names keep cropping up

Cambridge Audio Topaz AM1 £79
Devon PMA520E £140
Marantz 5005 £165

Any views on the above or other suggestions?

Thanks

Grimley · 27 Mar 2016 at 17:50

Out of those three - the Denon.

Makhaira · 27 Mar 2016 at 21:19

Thanks. Any particular reason?

Grimley · 28 Mar 2016 at 09:15

Denon and Marantz are the same company. Denon has a bit more power though. The CA is only 20WPC & has no phono stage, so you would have to add a phono pre-amp later if you decided to add a Turntable at some point in the future.

TBH I would demo all three in store (Assuming you plan on buying from RS) & take your own music.

Marine-RX179 · 28 Mar 2016 at 11:35

Monitor Audio A100.

Was given 5-stars on whathifi review even when it was at £500, and they are now at EOL price of <£150 at Richer Sounds.

Unlike other amp at this price range, it has a built-in DAC that quite good with multiple inputs: USB (Apple devices only), Optical Digital and Wireless (Airplay and dlna, no Bluetooth).

I am using one to drive my pair of Wharfedale Diamond 155 Floorstander, and it's sound really great. Another thing great about this amp is that it has relatively small footprint and can be placed standing up vertically (making them great for placing on desk for example).

Makhaira · 28 Mar 2016 at 19:40

I got the last A100 in my local RS today, really pleased with it thanks

. I've already got a Logitech receiver so that's BT taken care of!