Conference hips::uk_audioo

    
    I don't know exactly what the difference between the I & II series
    is. I don't think it is considerable but it reinforces their appeal.
    The amp now has a balance dial on the volume knob. The output and
    record capability covers the following; tape, video, tuner, CD,
    mute & turntable. It now costs around 170 pounds and wins the plaudits
    as the best budget amp on the market in most hi-fi mags. 
    
    The Cyrus II also gets good reviews with enhanced performance and
    easy-to-use mm/mc capability. This retails at 299 pounds.

    I have no experience of Mission amplifiers as I have a
    long standing liking for QUAD.
    However I did buy a Mission CD player after listening to
    various models.
    So far I have been very satisfied with the unit.
    (and I have always been sceptical about digital audio)

    Well ace!  I have had a Mission Cyrus II for three years and apart
    from the writing rubbing off the Power switch they have performes
    really well.  I run them through a pair of Mission speakers.
    
    Nick
    

    HI All,
    	I'm thinking of replcing my amp.  I currently have a NAD 3021, and
    I've been toying with the idea of a Mission Cyrus I (the �200 model). 
    Does anyone know much about them - like would I notice a huge
    improvement over my NAD?  Or should I wait and save for the Cyrus II
    (which I believe costs around �330)?  
    
    Any thoughts gladly recieved.
    
    Mikef

    RE -1
    
    I compared the Cyrus I to a Denon PMA-350 (45 quid cheaper) a few weeks
    ago, and actually prefered the Denon.  I did the comparison using a
    Rega Planner 2 turntable and Royd A7 loudspeakers.  (Prefered = sound
    quality + looks + facilitys) You're obviously not bothered about the
    looks because you've got a NAD.. 8-)
    
    The diffrence you hear will depend on how good the rest of your system
    is, a better amp won't make a crap signal sound any better. Your best bet
    is to go out and audition one.
    
    ..Craig
    
    P.S.  What does your system consist of?
    
     

    system - Sony CDPX33ES CD player (see CD reviews!!)
     	     NAD 3021 amp (I like the look!!)
    	     Dual CS505 turntable
             Wharfedale 506 speakers. 	
    
    	What I am really thinking of is upgrading my Amp, but I can't see
    the point of spending �150-�200 for a slight improvement, I'd rather
    save and go upmarket.  
    
    	I did hear an Onix (now that looks cool!), but I'm not sure about
    the sound.  I wonder if there is some way of hiring these things oso
    that I could place one in my system and hear it at home?  that would be
    an idea...
    
    Mikef

    Buying a good amp is a difficult task! The only thing for you to do is
    find a shop that will let you borrow an amp to take home (they do
    exsist). OR audition various amps at a shop using componants as close as
    poss to your own - this is what I did..
    
    ..Craig 

    Re: .6
    
    You ought to try the Audiolab 8000 amplifier, at around �400 (or maybe
    less if you can negotiate another cash discount).  I bought one last
    year to replace a 5 year-old A&R A60, and was *really* surprised at the
    difference it made - it is much more open sounding and very pleasant to
    listen to.  At the time I compared it with a Rotel amp (sorry can't
    remember the serial) and the Musical Fidelity A1 and B1.  I hadn't
    realised that the amplifier could be such an important part of the
    setup.
    
    Although it's not where I bought mine, Audio T in Basingstoke sell
    them, and they will let you take one home and bring it back.  The way
    they do it is to take the money (or credit card imprint) and then
    refund you when you return the piece of equipment.  Also, they do your
    Sony CD player so you could have them set up a system similar to yours
    perhaps...
    
    nick

     re 64.4....
    
    Until you can answer these questions....
    
    1. What is it about my system's sound that dissatisfies me so much
    that it makes me want spend around �400 on it?
    
    2. Why do I think spending the �400 or thereabouts on an amplifier is
    going to change that dissatisfaction?
    
    ....don't go anywhere near a dealer -  unless you can be sure they will
    help you answer those questions before parting you from your money.
    
    It's your money, of course, and you may be just wanting to *spend*,
    which is OK. But think how long you took to earn versus how quickly a
    hifi shop can take it off you first. If you just have a vague need to
    consume, spend it on records or CDs. better yet, give it to me ;-)
    
    Dave

I've alwaysthought that the Exposure X (and the XV just released) is the best
integrated amp I've ever heard. Not sure of the prices though, I think the
X price dropped when the XV was introduced...

Alternatively the Naim NAIT is also excellen if you value a detailed portrail of
the music...

    What about the Linn Intek (or whatever its called) They've just reduced
    the price to �400 which looks good values - also don't forget the ION
    offering at that price.
    
    	Rik