2. amps-preamps
  3. 148480-105825

Good starter amp recommendation

Was lurking for a while, decided to post.

I have an old system with Energy RC-30 speakers and currently using a Denon x3400h to drive them. The system is used mostly 80/20 for music/movies, and uses an Energy RC-LCR center for movies.

Would like to add a simple 2/3 channel amp for around $1000 to improve the sound and was looking at some more recommendations. Want it to be a good part of the system, but since the speakers are pretty basic, don't look for anything too fancy, but good enough to upgrade the speakers later on.

Looking around the forum, the following is my short list:
van Alstine SET 120 or Synergy 240/3
Odyssey Khartago (or used Stratos)
Anthem PVA or MCA (used is all I can afford, probably)
Parasound A23

Would like to hear any suggestions.
camradal
camradal OP
2 posts
 
To update the thread, I found a good deal on a used McCormack DNA-HT1 Deluxe. Will try it out and see how it works in the system. From what I've read it's basically a dual DNA 0.5 with a bridged center. Also, seems like a lot of people had a success upgrading the amp through smcaudio later on if needed.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
If that is anything like the DNA .5 then you lucked out, as that is one of the best sounding SS amps on the market. Very involving, full-bodied and dimensional, with a sound to rival even a lot of really good tube amps. 
murdoch99
2 posts
 
Don’t know the other amps but I can vouch for the Parasound A23. It is a real power amp. I was surprised when I first got it, I hooked it up to Dynaudio Focus 340s which are usually hooked up to a Simaudio power amp. The a23 had absolutely no problem dealing with the 340s, they just sang.

The a23 is now hooked up to Focus 160s on a different system. It is very musical and sounds great.

You will need a preamp though, since it not an integrated amp. Maybe your denon has a preamp out feature.

The a23 does run a little warm even if it is not active. I leave it on all the time. It needs a bit of space to breath. 

If you are looking for a good inexpensive power amp, the a23 is exactly that. And its physical size is also impressive. Given  what it can do, it is quite small.


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