2. amps-preamps
  3. 1322811363

how much power

I do not have a good grip on amps. But i keep hearing about more power and more current !

I don't listen to music very loud... may be 75db at the most. The roomsize is 11 x 15. My speakers are Vienna Acoustics, Haydn Grand (4 ohm). Receiver is Denon 3311ci.

My question is really if i need need anything more than say 50 watts per channel ? Why ?

roxito

Showing 2 responses by martykl

martykl
3,578 posts
 
Unless there is some very ugly quirk in the impedance curve/phase profile of the Vienna speakers, I'd find it hard to believe that the Denon's 125 wpc amp section will not comfortably drive them to levels well north of 75 db in an 11 x 15 room. As to available current and stability into the load, I seriously doubt that you have an issue with either.

It is certainly true that SQ may vary from power amp to power amp. Designs differ and different amps each interact in their own way with any given speaker's load, but that's a different kettle of fish. You may well prefer a different amp, but I highly doubt that you NEED one to drive your speakers to your desired levels.

Whatever else may be going on here, this set-up does not appear remotely underpowered to me.

Marty
martykl
3,578 posts
 
Rok2id,

Are you familiar with the unique design of the HK 990?

The unit's preamp section offers the kind of DSP that you would usually find only in a multi-channel AVR or pre-pro. (It has ADC, DAC, digital bass management, digital room EQ, etc.) Personally, I think it's an incredibly good idea, but it's definitely not the usual "audiophile approved" approach. I'd love to endorse it, but unfortunately, it's well nigh impossible to find one to audition and I've never heard one. However, if you listen primarily to digital sources, this thing has unique capabilities among 2 channel amps.

My point is that, the HK 990's power amp section, while a highly regarded design (see below) isn't really what PRIMARILY distinguishes this unit from the Parasound (or anything else, really).

That power amp section itself follows the Matti Otala Citation design principles established decades ago. Many people (me included) like the sound of these amps very much. A lot has been written about this clever design and a quick Google search (try "citation amp" or "Matti Otala amp design") will probably be educational for you. In the end, however, the overall "sound" of the HK990 will be much more influenced by the DSP in the preamp section - if you use it.

Good Luck.

Marty
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