...and you wouldn't catch me trying to power these boys with something under 100watts. My current SS amp is an EAD PowerMaster 2000, which dynamically steers power to the necessary channels. So, according to the manual, I'm delivering 2x3500 watts into the 4ohm speakers. They sound pretty good. Not GREAT, but in terms of price:performance, you'd be pretty impressed.
Before this, I've tried an Adcom 350x2 watt amp (cant remember the name), a 5x125watt multichannel amp i borrowed for a while (cant remember the name), a Denon AVR3600 and another Sony receiver. I've also heard the Golds through Brystons, Parasounds, and other EAD amps. In all cases, the speakers would not open up. Period. The Golds demand high levels of power, and really, really are not suitable for integrated or SS amps with power ratings below 150/channel. Even then, these guys need tons of power to really shine.
If you're interested in tubes, I'd suggest you first purchase a pair of speakers that can support both your tube and SS needs.
Before this, I've tried an Adcom 350x2 watt amp (cant remember the name), a 5x125watt multichannel amp i borrowed for a while (cant remember the name), a Denon AVR3600 and another Sony receiver. I've also heard the Golds through Brystons, Parasounds, and other EAD amps. In all cases, the speakers would not open up. Period. The Golds demand high levels of power, and really, really are not suitable for integrated or SS amps with power ratings below 150/channel. Even then, these guys need tons of power to really shine.
If you're interested in tubes, I'd suggest you first purchase a pair of speakers that can support both your tube and SS needs.