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Good 2 channel integrated amplifier for 702 s2 under 3k?

Hey everyone just purchased a pair of new B&W 702 s2 speakers today but am trying to decide the best way to power them for 2-3k. I would like to stay closer to 2k but can stretch to 3k if necessary. I will be using these for 50% music of all types and 50% movies. I would love to upgrade to a 5.1 at some point but I am looking at amplifiers because I don't want to sacrifice sound quality and don't have an affordable solution to this. My priorities are to get as much deep bass as possible out of them and to try and warm up the harsh high frequencies if possible. Here are some I am considering:

1. Rotel RA-1572 (2x120W) 
2. Rotel RA-1592 (2x200W) 
3. Musical Fidelity M6si (2x220W)
4. NAD M10 (2x100W)
5. NAD C 388 BluOS-2i (2x150W)
6. Arcam SR250 (2x250W)

I am open to new suggestions and have just started my search. I am also interested to know if I will really need the RA-1592 with 200W or if the cheaper version with 120W should be enough if I go with Rotel? Also, if there is a good option for an AV reciever that will sound comparable but allow me to go with 5.1. Thanks!





km1181

Showing 2 responses by jdoris

jdoris
972 posts
 
Looks like your speakers are tolerably efficient, at 90db.  Depending on listening volumes, room size etc., it's likely you could get away with less power, and invest in fewer, better watts.
I'd probably figure out exactly what my power requirements are, and widen my search.
Do you want "just" an integrated, or one with DAC etc.?
jdoris
972 posts
 
Lots of strong options at your pricepoint, esp used (amps perhaps an esp, good bet, on second hand market).  Again, being clear on needed power and features will narrow the huge field.

With blackbag20 on Odyssey, if you want some power.  Had a Stratos Dual Mono for some time that I regret selling (I'm not sure what I would do with it, since I'm now a lower power guy, but it was just that nice.)
Klaus is a nice and helpful guy, and could work with you on upgrades which would still have you well within budget.  Fun project, but might take some time.
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