2. amps-preamps
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For efficient speakers, how much difference does an amp really make?

I have ascend sierra RAAL tower speakers with 90-93db efficiency and 300W continuous power handling. I’m powering them with dual outlaw M2200 monoblock class AB/G amps rated at 200W into 8 ohms. It sounds good...but i can’t help but wondering if a different amp would provide greater clarity and low-end grunt.

I have been curious about an older adcom amp like the GFA-555 II or perhaps a parasound halo amp like the A23. 

To those who have had multiple amps in your setup, did you find significant sonic differences between amps, or is a subtle thing? I don’t want to start collecting amps, but I don’t want to deny myself the chance to improve my system further. Thoughts?
dtrandall

Showing 1 response by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
12,099 posts
 
Just to be clear, 90-93dB is a moderate efficiency.


The problem you run into with moderate to lower efficiency speakers (less than 89dB) is something called 'thermal compression'. This is the tendency for the voice coil to heat up dynamically on peaks, which limits power with many amplifiers. The more power you throw at it, the worse it gets. This is why efficiency speakers (+96dB) have greater dynamic punch.



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