Nad 3130 - Upgrade or replace?

[ihatesissycars]

Hi all,

I've a NAD 3130 which, I love but its getting on a bit now and the sound is beginning to distort at times. I've found a company that can service and upgrade the NAD for £145 (http://www.fidele.co.uk/) and it sounds like a decent service but I'm uncertain whether this is worthwhile or whether I should source another amp as, althoguh the NAD sounds lovely I find it a bit limp lacking in punch.

I'm on a budget, about £150 so I was looking at the Arcam Alpha 8 which goes for ebay prices around that area. Any other suggestions?

This will be paired with my current Q- Acoustics 2020's, a NAD ye olde cd player and my pride and joy, diy slate lenco L75 turntable with an MC cartridge which the amp will need to support.

[telecat]

Tough One! If you are happy with it BUT are feeling the Upgrade bug I'd Buy the ARCAM and see if you prefer it. Then If you don't get the NAD repaired and sell the ARCAM on. I cannot see you'd lose much if you are patient.

[ihatesissycars]

Hi, thanks for the reply. Certainly makes sense! Is the Arcam a good choice do you think or is there any other suitable alternatives for amps you could recommend?

[telecat]

It's down to taste at the end of the day. A lot of people like the Cyrus Amps for example but as many hate them!!! Go where your wallet takes you and see what you think. I love Audio Innovations Valves but they do need TLC every so often so aren't everybodies cup of tea.