Advice on Integrated Receiver


I currently have two Monitor Audio Silver 300s.  I have a Cambridge Audio CAX81 (80w/ch).  After reading the reviews, the speakers sound a bit underwhelming.  I have a Rega P6 turntable hooked up for most of the audio content.  In looking at the Max Wattage for the speakers I realize perhaps the amplifier isn't letting them breathe enough?

The speakers are rated at 200w max with recommended 80-200w RMS.   Am I way off base in thinking I'm underpowering these?

What integrated receiver would you recommend to really drive these?  Budget under $5k

bound4h

Showing 1 response by cdorval1

If you’re dissatisfied with the sound of your speakers, the two most-important factors to consider are placement in your room (and where you’re listening from) and synergy with your amplifier.
 

While you don’t say specifically why the sound of your system is not right to you, I think you’re probably right that trying an amplifier with better synergy will improve things. You also don’t say if you need/want features and versatility, or just a line-level integrated amp.  When you’re shopping, look beyond the power rating of the amplifier and look at things like higher damping factor and/or (for class A or AB amps) ability to double power from 8 ohm to 4 ohm loads. Your speakers are rated 8 ohms, dipping as low as 4.  If you are looking at class D amplifiers, look for a recent design such as one of the higher-end NAD units. 
 

Hope this helps you a bit. Have fun!