2. amps-preamps
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How do I know if I need an amp?

My system is as follows:

Marantz SR8200 AV Receiver
Totem Mites bookshelf speakers
Totem storm subwoofer
Onkyo DX-C330 Analog ouput disc changer

I've got the speakers wired directly into the sub and treat the bookshelfs and sub as "large main, left and right" in the receiver's output setup.

My living room is quite small, I listen to the system from about 8 feet away on the couch.

What kind of changes to listening quality could I expect from buying an amplifier for the system at this stage? I don't plan on buying new speakers anytime soon, so I am more interested in the incremental clarity that I could achieve over a need for any additional power.

I'm not an avid movie watcher, so I wonder if a 2 channel amp would make more sense, though the marantz PM5003 I saw ($600 is about my price range) only puts out 40watts, whereas my speakers are rated up to 80 watts, and the receiver I have now puts out 120watts.

Is there a big quality difference between the SR8200's 120w per channel and a stand alone amplifier's 40watts? Would a 120w amp, used in a stereo set up, make a big difference?

Thanks
manbehindthcurtain

Showing 3 responses by manbehindthcurtain

manbehindthcurtain OP
5 posts
 
Thanks for the amp recommendations. A question about installation and setup-

Right now, I am using my receiver inputs for my digital cable and dvd player for surround sound. If I bought, say the Acurus DIA 100 amp, or any other stereo amp, would I be able to run the amp to the CD player, and still maintain my surround sound and stereo output for my DVD and Cable?
manbehindthcurtain OP
5 posts
 
Why do you think ditching the capability for surround sound is a good idea? Because I am treating the bookshelfs and sub as mains together?

Ultimately I would like to move towards a home theater setup that will also do stereo. I understand though that the bass on the Mites is limited. I'm starting to feel like getting the Mites was a mistake, because theyre too nice to relegate to surrounds, but not big enough to power stereo listening.

Would something like the Marantz MM8003 provide a bridge to future growth in a home theater setup, but still provide power for the mock "surround" setup I have now?
manbehindthcurtain OP
5 posts
 
Bob, Can you explain what you mean by "high passing" the Mites (from an execution stand point). I assume you mean to reduce the frequency levels they play - can this be done via my receiver?

I am gathering you recommend that I hook the sub directly up to the receiver as a "sub", and do the same with the fronts. How do I "high pass" the mites?

I want to also thank everyone for their help. I have a lot of fun with this, there is so much to learn, and this site is a great resource especially for us newbies. Thanks!
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