2. amps-preamps
  3. 169457-145771

High end high quality int. amp for low level listening

Hello to all Audigon members.  I'm quite in a dilemma weather I should upgrade my amplifier. Currently I own Pathos classic one MK3 driving Sonus Faber Sonetto's speakers, and I must say I'm very happy with sound filling my 35 square meters room. However, it's known that the speakers are power hungry as they rated at 86db sensitivity and 4 ohm impedance and I think they will surely benefit from a bigger power supply. With all that being said I'm not sure if I will hear any improvement mostly because 90% of the time I listen at ~60dBs SPL. My budget is around 5k $ and these are the amplifiers I've been considering:  Hegel H390, Anthem STR, Cambridge Audio Edge A, McIntosh MA5300/MA252, Accuphase e280, Rotel Michi x3 or used Pass Labs INT 25, Mark Levinson 5805.

What do you think guys, will any of the amplifiers make ay difference at 60dB SPL ? 
celestial__sound

Showing 1 response by oldhvymec

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
The power amp is SS and doubles down on the watts. I think that side is good. Out of curiosity have you rolled the pre amp valves or changed the PC. I was surprised at low listening what a PC can change. Is it a lot? Enough to notice the difference.

Valves that is a given.. They can change the quality of any listening experience. Some break up at higher volume before others BUT play VERY clean at low volumes.. It's worth a try before an amp swap and a by guess and by God, venture. You're happy now, with just a little room treatment, a slight valve refinement.. ???? What ya think?

Good news, you saved a bundle..

Regards
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