Suitable small/compact amp for Wharfdale Diamond 9.1

ramus

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Hey,

I recently bought a pair of Wharfdale Diamond 9.1 along with a SMSL AD-18. I had to return the AD-18 due to a technical fault so I'm now looking for another amp.

Budget: £500 GBP.
Country: UK.
Places to buy from: Amazon, Audio T, Currys/PCWorld, Richer Sounds, Sevenoaks.
Use cases: 80% music, 10% games, 10% videos (mostly YouTube).
Placement: on desk.
Size: small amp (similar in size to the SMSL AD-18)
Other: 2.0 is fine, as I don't want a sub.
Features (prioritised):
  1. Headphone jack (must have).
  2. Bluetooth (preferable AptX).
  3. Remote control.
  4. Built-in DAC (USB input).


Below are some amps that I've found which meet my criteria but are on the expensive end of my budget.
  1. NAD D 3020 v2
  2. NAD D 3045
  3. Denon PMA-60
 
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I'd say you've narrowed it down pretty good.
 
You are not heavily invested in speakers. I think you'd do better with a set of powered speakers for size and convenience
 
Rega IO plus separate DAC/Bluetooth receiver, better quality amp.

Denon dm41, for convenience.
 
Thanks guys, I went with the NAD D 3020v2 in the end :)
I am now in the same conundrum as you were. What made you go wit the 3020v2 over the 3045? Cost alone?
 
I am now in the same conundrum as you were. What made you go wit the 3020v2 over the 3045? Cost alone?
Cost and size. I wanted a small amp and the 3045 is much larger than the 3020v2.
 

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