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Advice for Amp to Drive Klipsch Forte IVs

I just got back into hifi after being away for many many years. My first system, when I was 18-19 was a Kenwood KA-9100 amp, KT-615 tuner, Denon TT, Klipsch Heresy speakers and Teac reel to reel. Loved that setup in a small room. That was 1979-80. I’m now almost 60...LOL...and I’ve got time and money.

Just earlier this year I bought some KLIPSCH Forte IVs, a Denafrips Pontus II DAC, CXN V2 and a small Reisong tube amp while I got on the list for a set of Decware amps. I decided I couldn’t wait and have decided to go SS.  

 I listen to down tempo, Trip-Hop, Jazz and a little of this and that in a fairly small space. ...maybe 15x30.

I’m considering the Pass Labs INT-25 or maybe a Luxman L-550ax ii.

 I do not have the opportunity to demo either of these but have read wonderful reviews and have watched some nice videos about each. 

 I wanted to get some thoughts on this set up. A brand new Luxman goes for about the same price as a demo INT-25.

daodao

Showing 3 responses by gochurchgo

gochurchgo
892 posts
 

@daodao 100% with you muisically and about Decware. I have Heresy IV;s running with an Odyssey Khartago with tons of upgrades. Unless I can someday get a pass amp I have no desire for any other amp. Word of caution, because this is happening in my system, most SS amps are high gain, and most tube pre’s have high gain so noise is an issue. I am running 12db attenuators which remedies this. No change to the sound to my ears but its obviously not something I thought through before hand. I am very happy with my system but admit the gain thing bugs my sensibilities (read: mental illness) and so I have been looking at a passive/low gain pre like the Hattor.

 

Just something to keep in mind with effecicient speakers 👍

gochurchgo
892 posts
 

@russ69 

Nothing wrong with this. Although 6 db might be enough but as long as you can get the volume you need/want it's fine. 

 

My line stage cooks tubes so tubes issues come fast. I do have a set of 6db I want to throw in but I never get around to it. I have been exploring other ways to lower the output but have found that conclusively works.

gochurchgo
892 posts
 

The Klipsch don't need power, but they love power. My neighbors aren't happy about this obviously. I played my Heresy IV's with a Decware (2.3wpc) and it sounded great. My Odyssey gives it grunt and propulsion.

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