benefits of adding a power amp to a budget system?


I had posted in here before about possibly adding a power amp to my budget audio system.

I have a HK AVR 235 receiver (50 watts per channel RMS) hooked up to a pair of KEF Q5 speakers.

I am considering the purchase of an older power amp, like the CJ sonographe SA 250. I would like to improve the musicality, detail, bass response, soundstage, etc, while providing an upgrade path in the future.

I went to a local hifi store to see what they might have, and the salesman told me that adding a poweramp would do very little for me, that what I really need to do is upgrade my speakers, and then consider a sep amplifier.

Is there really little benefit to adding a sep amplifier at this time?
wilsynet

Showing 1 response by vicdamone

A few questions.

What are your source components, Make and models, vinyl, CD?

What kind of music do you mainly listen to?

What's your listening room like, approximate size? Where are the speakers now?

What are your likes and dislikes about the speakers you currently have? Have you tried many different speaker placement options? Some of the goals you mentioned can be had through speaker placement and a little room treatment. Set the speakers up as per manufactures instructions. Get an office chair with wheels and slowly roll yourself in between the speakers and listen for the sound stage to lock in.

What speakers did the salesperson suggest as an upgrade?

Have you heard any system that has really sonically impressed you? Do you have a goal in mind?

Why the Sonograph?

Did you know there are many manufactures and retailers that offer satisfaction return policies and/or home auditioning? It's very important that you hear improvements in your home. Using these services you can broaden you hands on knowledge and hopefully refine and define your goal.