Amp for Focal Electra 1008Be


hi folks. I am in the market looking for an amp for my focal electra 1008be bookshelves. I have few in consideration:
1. hegel H160
2. YBA IA350 (new Shanling occupied YBA)
3. Marantz PM11S3

What do you guys suggest or recommend if any even if they are besides the above. thanks.
spoutjack

Showing 1 response by auxinput

The Focal speakers are going to be very fast and very bright/cold sounding.  Not knowing all 3 of your options, I would tend to lean towards the warmth of the Marantz.  I see you and one other love the Hegel.  I would also consider a McIntosh integrated as you really need something to slow down the sound so that it plays well with the Focal (unless you really like that very fast/bright/crisp sound -- I have found over time that it is too much).  The McIntosh will fill out the midrange body and midbass -- which is critical on your bookshelves where you will have no low end.  It will also soften the high frequencies that can be so out of control with the Focals.  My opinion on the Pass Labs is that it's going to be too strong and too "solid state" for the Focal speakers.