Amp recommendation for Sopra 2


I am in the process of ordering Focal Sopra 2. The primary use cases are

1. Play TV (currently LG smart tv) audio - digital out from TV is plugged into the "processor". TV has all streaming sources like Youtube, Sling, Netflix. A game console is connected through HDMI. In all cases, the "digital out" from TV captures the audio signal.

2. Stream music from Spotify, TIDAL. I have very little physical media. And it’s a goal to move to 100% streaming for convenience. I am retiring DVD player, CD player

Goals

a. Great sound quality
b. Convenience of fewer pieces of hardware, without seriously compromising sound quality
c. Modern looking equipment with digital displays. Less of "brick/wall" look. Not sure how feasible is this goal
d. Channels: Certainly 2. Not sure whether sub is needed with Sopra 2. Would like the flexibility of .1 or .2. In future, maybe add a center channel thereby making 3.1 or 3.2.
e. Ideally keep the spend under $3000

I have few questions

1. Should I get an AVR or separate processor/amp? Eg Marantz SR7011, Pioneer Elite SC-LX701

2. I have heard certain recommendations like Anthem XTR, Naim, SimAudio. Naim NAP 250 DR has 80 watts/channel. Is that adequate power at all to drive these speakers well? Even basic Denons have 100-125 watts/channel and cost much less.

3. A big sub like SVS PB 4000 has 500+ watts RMS. Clearly this is much more power than most amps can provide. Does it mean that even the great speakers like Sopra 2, benefit from a sub?

4. Please share your recommendations for equipment.

raj123
The Sopra’s are an excellent, hi-end speaker which means they deserve excellent amplification -- especially as you specify "Great sound..." as your 1st goal.
1) No, go for a good 2-channel amp. Buy used—given your budget you will score a better sounding amp, if a bit long in the tooth, than if you go for new. (There is a big MacIntosh listed here for under 3k, for example)

2) I heard these speakers superbly driven by ~150W monoblocks, but I reckon they can work with an 80W Naim. I like lots of clean power, so I would go for 120+W.

3) They do benefit of course — as I said, I like to have lots of power on tap! BTW, the Sopra had plenty of bass when I listened to them!
Good luck!
Let’s say I go for a separate 2 channel amp. In that case I need a separate processor right?

the separate processor can be a receiver like Denon AVR 3600 with Audyssey room software, pre-outs. Is this a good one?

for amp - how is Classe Sigma AMP2, Monolith by Monoprice 5x200 Watts Per Channel?