8-10k budget suggestions please


Hey guys, 

been out of the game about 10 years, got a new wife, new house, and plugged in my old B&W 804's.  Connected them to a Denon receiver expecting to want to do surround sound.......But forget it!  I really want to maximize my 804's for 2 channel listening.

My room is 15ft long by 13 by 9.  not very big but I need amplification and streaming capabilites.  Will add TT later as I do have vinyl.  Room tx is on it's way so let's just assume it's already done.

 

Thanks for all your help!

asmithkash

Showing 8 responses by mesch

I should add that I am not familiar with the sound of your speakers, just that you like the way they sound with your AVR. I am positive you are going to be please with the road you are about to travel. A high quality 2 channel integrated amplifier will take you much of the way.

I prefer some warmth, with a non aggressive or tipped up  treble, and articulate midrange in my speaker. 

 

I would keep streamer/DAC separate from amplification. I recommend keeping digital separate from analog on separate lines if possible. More flexible upgrade path, less noise input on signal.

One way to extend your budget is to purchase fairly new but used amplification.  For half your budget you would do well. Many great integrated amplifiers can be found for ~$5K.

Search the forum for streaming options. You might start out with a budget streamer  like the Bluesound Node to get comfortable with streaming. Then purchase a better outboard DAC or all-in-one streamer/DAC after exploring the market. 

So many ways to go, so little time :-).

@asmithkash Well, it goes back to a question I have regarding the power you think you need for the speakers. I have not looked them up so I don't know impedance specs. 

I am sure some would disagree but I consider impedance across frequency range more important than sensitivity when it comes to the power needed. Sensitivity relates more to how a speaker plays into the room. Impedance relates to how the amplifier interacts with the speaker. The size of your room helps. It is similar to my own.

 

Are your 804s the one with a pair of 6.5" woofers?  

I would think that you may not need the subwoofers you were thinking about in your original post. A small room supports base energy. For music it can get to be too much. 

Congrats on your purchase of the Krell.  Keep us posted as you proceed.

 

 

Glad to hear you are enjoying the Krell and that it has met your expectations as an upgrade. 

I believe the next step is to improve your source with a streamer for Tidal.