Advice for compact Integrated Amp Dac

[Xardas]

Hi everybody! I'm new to the forum.

In the last few months I've read/watched a lot of reviews (but I'm still very very noob) and listened to some speakers, since I need a compact desktop system (it will be connected only to my computer, and I will use it for desktop listening, and as a general bedroom second system).

I've 99% decided for the speakers: Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 (at the beginning I thought I could spend more, but I liked their sound and tonality, so why spend more, for now).

Since on the desk I don't have much more space, I'm looking for a compact Integrated Amp with Dac, and I ask you for some info for that.

At the moment I found:

- PS Audio Sprout 100 (reviews aren't amazing, but it's probably fine for my use)
- NuPrime IDA-8 (more expensive, but I could find it used - I don't know if the sound quality would be better than the Sprout 100)

What do you think about it? Do you have more options I could consider?
I removed the NAD D3045 from the list because reviews are pretty bad, and it's really all plastic.

What I need: usb input, optical input, sub out
What I don't need: bluetooth, headphone jack, remote control

Thank you in advance!

 

[ZolaIII]

I wouldn't recommend back ported speakers for a desk nor near field all do Diamond 21.1 has a wide horizontal dispersion so it could do fine for such.
There are a lot of active studio near feald monitors and I think you would be better with such, of course front ported (all do I am not keen on such usually).
Best regards.

 

[staticV3]

Spending $800+ on an Amp and $340 on speakers is not very smart if you want good sound.
I'd buy active studio monitors instead.

 

[Xardas]

Yes I thought about it, but the problem for me for active monitors, is that most of them have a too much analytical sound..I listened to the Genelec G3 and the Neumann KH120, they are both great, but too much revealing, I think I would be fatigued very soon..
With passive speakers it's easier to find a warmer sound and tonality.
What would you suggest?

 

[NiagaraPete]

Yes I thought about it, but the problem for me for active monitors, is that most of them have a too much analytical sound..I listened to the Genelec G3 and the Neumann KH120, they are both great, but too much revealing, I think I would be fatigued very soon..
With passive speakers it's easier to find a warmer sound and tonality.
What would you suggest?

In reality, it would be the opposite. I'd suggest going for the accurate sound and if you can afford the G 3 that would be my choice.

 

[Timcognito]

If you're sure you want passive speakers get a small amp like this <$200 and spring for speakers and a sub

Loxjie A30 Amplifier Review

This is a review and detailed measurements of the multifunction Loxjie A30 power (speaker and headphone) amplifier with integrated USB DAC and Bluetooth input. It was kindly sent to me by a member and costs US $159 plus $7 shipping on Amazon. The A30 sports a high resolution and high contrast...

www.audiosciencereview.com

 

[Xardas]

If you're sure you want passive speakers get a small amp like this <$200 and spring for speakers and a sub

Loxjie A30 Amplifier Review

This is a review and detailed measurements of the multifunction Loxjie A30 power (speaker and headphone) amplifier with integrated USB DAC and Bluetooth input. It was kindly sent to me by a member and costs US $159 plus $7 shipping on Amazon. The A30 sports a high resolution and high contrast...

www.audiosciencereview.com

Thank you, the Loxjie A30 seems exactly what I need!

Besides, as staticV3 said, it doesn't make any sense to spend 800eur for the amp and 280eur for the speakers.
This looks like a better combo overall.

Thank you everybody