Beginner Audiophile. How to chose a right amp? Recommendation for my setup?


Hi

I am new to the world of audio and looking for an enjoyable stereo setup for myself.

I have chosen my next set of speakers, DAC, and a streamer, but can’t quite choose a power amp.

You don’t have to read this -->> "How do you pick a right amp for yourself? Do you consider Damping Factor? Do you match Tube DAC + Tube Amp? or Do you match Solid State + Tube Amp? for what reason? What sound do Soild State DAC/Amp + Tube DAC/Amp combos make? Are there characteristics in Amps? like in DACs? if so, what are they?"

Literally, there are just too many questions I want to ask. But, for now, I just want to listen to what you want to say, whatever is in your mind or any advise you would like to give as more experienced audiophiles when you pick a power amp.

I seek for the right components, ideal setups and match because I learned something from my very first set of audio gears I bought for this thanksgiving that I unfortunately returned a few days ago. The sound quality from Sonos Amp was hard to endure! The SVS Ultra bookshelf was great, but not quite so when it dealt with high notes.

So, I did my research this time and found my next set of audio gears.

1. Monitor Audio Gold 100 5G speaker
2. MHDT Lab Orchid DAC
3. MiniDSP SHD Ultra streamer

What I focused on during the research was to pick gears that can produce wide sound stage, great 3d imaging, airy voices, and great details with smooth yet realistic sounds.

But, I don’t have a clue how to choose a right power amp.

I can just pick a internet recommended under $ 1K power amp and be done with it. Maybe I can still be okay. But, I don’t want to just buy something without knowing anything to go through a return process again. I’d rather at least learn some basics before buying a music component, even if I end up returning something. Because I know now that I can be pretty picky on stereo sounds.

So...

Please comment anything you want to add.

Recommend me some used/new power amps + deals (under 1K ish), if you have anything in mind.

Direct me to the right direction.

Thanks.

K





yggy1
I do own a Schiit modi3 and a Saga preamp. I am very happy with them. I am more of a tube guy and own a couple of set amps. I also own a pair of Decware Imperials. I am working on building a pair of Decware zkit 1 amplifiers. My set amps put out around 3 watts so they would not work for you.

I will make a power amp suggestion. I am thinking about getting a Crown XLS drivecore2 for my Imperials. The 1002 model ($339 list) puts out 550w@2ohms ,350w@4ohms and 215w@8ohms. It has a 3 year warranty. It is also a very versatile amp. It has a built in electronic crossover with high and low pass. Internal electronic y adapter for bi amping that would reduce interconnects/connections. It also features 1/4in jack, rca and xlr inputs. For speakers it has speakon and binding posts.

Crown’s parent company is Harman Professional and Crown has had a very strong reputation in professional audio for many years. Plus their amps are considered to be one of the best kept secrets in home theater. Read some reviews. I have seen some people compare them to audiophile amps costing 10 times the price or more. Out of all the models in the XLS line the 2002 and the 2502 have a lower noise floor.

I have heard quite a few of Crown’s products. Both in live venue and in a studio. I have a few friends who are musicians. You would need a preamp to go with it. This would make a great starter amp and could be repurposed later on as your needs change.
talkskiwon,

Since you state that your local dealers sell high priced equipment... might I suggest that you look for dealers up to an hour drive away... that sell more modest priced equipment.

Take your speakers with you to audition them with any prospective amps, power cords, speaker cables, and interconnects that the dealers may sell.

Granted... you won't be listening in your own room... but you may find a magical combination at those dealers, that works for you.
I forgot to add that dealer equipment will already be burned in... so you will get to hear what the amp actually sounds like.

Also... most dealers take trade-ins... so you may find a great deal on something used.
@talkskiwon

Just curious, after over 50 some odd replies as to what amp to get are you any closer to picking 1?

Cheers!