Best amp to use with ML Aeon i speakers ...


I am using a Levinson No 331, purchased earlier this year, with my Aeon i speakers. The sound is very, very transparent; by this I mean; cystalline highs, clear mid-range, and bass that is not at all booming. The problem is this; the sound seems somewhat on the sterile side, very analyitical, and not terribly realistic. I am not looking for a "sugar-coated" warmth in the sound, but would like to hear from anyone who is familiar with these speakers and amps. Any suggestions would be appreciated. The rest of my system; ML No 380 pre-amp, Meridian 588 CD player, VPI HW 19 Mk III, and Audioquest / Harmonic Tech cables. I listen to classical - small and large scale - and opera almost exclusively.
rmrobinson1957

Showing 1 response by audiokinesis

I'm not sure a change in amplification is going to solve your problem.

You see, an electrostatic/dynamic hybrid is challenging because the sound pressure level literally falls off more slowly with distance from the panel than from the woofer. So if the room is too big and/or the listening distance too great, a hybrid will probably sound too lightweight in the bass. Conversely, if the room is too small, the bass will be excessive. It seems to me that a lot of the problems people have with their hybrid electrostats arise from this issue. If the Aeon can be bi-amplified, then perhaps you can adjust the volume of one of the amps and restore proper tonal balance.

Also, the lack of warmth sounds to me like a lack of energy in the reverberant field. Make sure your room isn't overdamped. I personally prefer (and sell) electrostats that have a wider radiation pattern, as this is conducive to timbral richness and warmth. Does your version of Aeon have the ambience tweeter? If so, it should be switched on.

Best of luck to you!

Duke