Dynaudio focus 360

+1 with what @ghdprentice said.  The Adcom GFP-545 II (I'm assuming that is the model, not GFP-5452) most likely struggling.  It is around 30 years old and probably in need of a refurb or even failing completely.  (Are the distoration lights on the front flashing?)  

As for what to replace it with, while more watts is always nice, I would just want to make sure that the wattage comes close to doubling as you go from 8 ohms to 4 ohms.  (Example 100 watts @ 8 ohms to 200 watts @ 4 ohm)  That is an indicator that the amp a higher current model.  Also, with the Focus 360's, avoid going the direction of "bridging" a stereo amp to create a monoblock.  The Focus 360's are 4 ohm speakers and a bridged amp will see the load as 2 ohms, which is going to be harder for the amp to drive.

Good Luck.

-Jeff

@twangy57  -  You should see an improvement assuming that:

• The CJ is working properly.  It is a very nice amp.  It is a major step up from the Adcom.  However, it is another "vintage" piece that could be as much as 23 years old.  So, questions like, has it been recapped? Has it been professionally checked out?, etc.
• The McIntosh preamp (vintage again, first made in 1962) isn't having problems.  So, same type of questions as above.  What shape/age are the tubes? Are they due for replacing?
• You don't have a room or enviromental problem.
• Your cabling is up to par and in good shape.

and question... I don't remember from your previous posts, what are you using for a phono preamp with the Rega table? and what shape is the cartridge in?

- Jeff

@twangy57 

As the far as which amp to match with the mx110,I almost wish I would have just bought the speakers first,but I had already bought the preamp before getting on here.

Getting all the "in my opinion", the "for what it is worth"’s, etc. out of the way...

It’s not too late.  Alot of us have bought equipment in the past that turned out not to work well with the rest of our systems.  It happens.  Key is not to let dwell on it and be willing to make a correction. 

The old Adcom GFA-545 needs to be replaced.  That should not be in doubt.  The CJ is definitely a step in the right direction.  The Focus 360’s are nice speakers as well.  Different sounding than the Polk 10B’s, but also a step up.  

That said, you seem to be questioning will the MX110 preamp fit with the rest of your system.  It is a legitimate concern.  It has a very high output impedance and is going to be difficult to get a good match to an amp.  And, please don’t take this the wrong way, but it was introduced in what, 1962?  That makes it more than a 60 year old design.  And that goes for the phono preamp section as well.  You also seem to like a bit of a harder, edgier sound.  While I have not heard the MX110 myself, I would wonder if a tube pre from that era is going to be a bit too laid back (even "mushy") for you.

So, all that said...  Maybe it would be time to take a step back and reevaluate the choice of the MX110?  Maybe sell it and get something different?  And maybe a standalone, and better phono preamp as well?

And if you do, you wouldn’t be the first to go through it.  I’ve been in this hobby since I was 15 with no money and I’m now 61 and semi-retired.  I know I have backtracked myself on several occasions.  I would dare say, it is all part of this hobby.

- Jeff

@twangy57  -   Over the last couple of weeks and multiple treads on speakers, amps, streamers, etc., with all the recommendations, information, suggestions, etc., that have come them...  (whether they are Good, Bad, or Ugly - queue up a picture of Clint Eastwood here  LOL  ) ....

I'm now curious as to how do you think you should proceed?  Where is your head at?  Are there any key, bottom line questions do you still need answered?

- Jeff

@twangy57  -  As I mentioned before, the main indicator to identify a high current amp is does the rated wattage double as you drop from 8 ohm to 4 ohm.  There are plenty of "modern" amps that are available.  But, as you noted, the impedance requirement is definitely limiting your options.

Keep working on adjusting the speaker placement.  It can take a lot of time and experimentation to get it right.  Also keep in mind that room acoustical treatments (which can be as simple as a pillow in the corners or a couple of book shelves) will affect the sound.  If you are having to turn down the bass, that is usually a indication that either placement needs work or you have some room issues.

I think you should try the CJ amp.  It's not really an antique, just make sure it is functioning properly.  If needed you can send it to CJ in the Wash DC area and they will check it out and fix it if necessary. They are a great company to work with. It will be a significant upgrade to the Adcom.

One last thing, I would strongly recommend getting a stand alone phono preamp to use instead of the one built into the Mac.  You don't have to spend huge money there.  There are plenty of choices in the $400 to $600 dollar range that should be a noticable improvement.  (Even the Schiit Mani at $149 might be a step up and worth a try.)

In the end, going forward, take your time, do your research, and be methodical in evaluating and testing.  And enjoy the music!

(Oh, by the way... current is spelled with an e, not an a.  ...Mom was an English teacher... lol  )

Good luck.

-Jeff