2. speakers
  3. 1074613991

Best affordable amp for Thiel CS3.6

I have a pair of CS3.6's, which I am currently driving with a pair of Adcom GFA-555II's in bridged mono mode. While I am fairly happy with this setup, I realize that the Adcoms may not be in the same league as the Thiels. Any suggestions as to what amps mate well with the CS3.6's? Ideally, I'd love to find an amp (or two, if mono) for under $2,000, but if it's worthwhile, I may go higher. Obviously, if there is a great option out there for less money, I'd be even more interested. Used gear is fine with me, if it is quality gear. I am also considering modding my Adcoms to smooth out the mids/highs and add a little support in the low end.

Another consideration is that I am currently using an Adcom GFA-2535 for my center channel (Thiel SCS3) and surrounds (AR TSW-110), and since it is nice to have matching amps for HT, I'd probably have to add an additional amp or two (eventually).

My sources are currently a Denon DCM-460 and a JVC SA-600, but these are likely to be upgraded in the relatively near future. Both are sending digital outs to my Rotel RSP-1066, which handles the processing.

Thanks for any input/advice.

Tom.
tombowlus
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,274 posts
 
Tom, I wonder how the Theta Dreadnaught would do. It's not too pricey if I remember.
tombowlus OP
416 posts
 
The only disadvantage to Theta, is that from what I recall, their price point is fairly close to Krell, so I'd probably be tempted to go Krell. Still, they definitely seem worth checking out.
jazzdude
332 posts
 
I use to drive my Thiels with a Bryston 4B-ST but the Bryston's aren't that good at low impedence loads. I now use the Sim Audio Moon W-5 which has an output of over 700 watts into a 2 ohm load. Lotts of authority in the bass. You should be able to get a used one for $2500 or less.
gnobber
43 posts
 
Tom,

to answer your question, I have a feeling it is more of a "McCormack vs. Classe" thing, vs. the benefit of a monoblock. I can't remember if the McCormacks of that era were able to double down, and they were at a lower price point than the Classe. On the monoblock topic, I have heard of others having good luck with Thiels and their Classe 300 or 400 series stereo amps. I suspect it is a matter of good compatability between brands.

I have made several other big upgrades to the system (the Thiels have been the only constant over 10 years) and I have always been amazed at how the 3.6's reward you when a higher quality piece of gear is inserted upstream. The Thiels are probably still not my weakest link in the system.

Bill
dashonk507a
2 posts
 
I think you mentioned being a Progressive Audio customer in one of your posts. I know they have their Thiels primarily powered by Spectral gear in their showrooms. I ended up purchasing a Spectral/Thiel system. I have very little experience, so I'm wondering if you (or any one else) have heard this combo and what you think of the compatability. Have you considered Spectral?
More to discover