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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
tombowlus OP
416 posts
 
If I could edit the header on this thread I would. Perhaps I should call it something like:

"Thiel CS3.6's, and the Uberamps that Drive Them" or

"How my Thiels sucked my wallet dry"

Really, though, it is a testament to the great value of these speakers that they are able to show just what really good amps are able to do. The upside of all of this is that I find myself listening to (and enjoying) music more and more since picking up the Thiels (and the gear that followed). And ultimately, that is what it's all about.

Tom.
artmaltman
769 posts
 
The new Rowland monoblocks sound sensational with 2.4's, might be powerful enough for the 3.6's as well.
a_hayman
43 posts
 
Tom,

Before you bought the Enterprises, did you by any chance listen to any of the Krell FPB series amps with your 3.6's? I have the same speakers, and I'm considering getting a used pair of 250M monoblocks. I would be interested to know how you thought the sound of the 3.6's driven by the Enterprises compared to them being driven by the Krells.

Thanks, Alan
tombowlus OP
416 posts
 
No, I was rather disappointed that I was not able to compare the Enterprises to an FPB series Krell. I have heard that if you want incredibly strong bass, then nothing pushes Thiel speakers like Krell amps. However, I was more concerned about accurate bass, which is an area where the Thetas excel. The Thetas are also supposedly a bit sweeter on the high end (and I can attest to the fact that they are very musical on the highs - more so than the Edge, for sure). Still, it would have been a great comparison to make.

Tom.
jmbatkh
103 posts
 
I've been using the PS HCA2 for three years with mine- the sound is gorgeous and there is plenty of horsepower on tap. The best bang for the buck wtih the 3.6s, I'm sure.
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