2. amps-preamps
  3. 186429-185098

Integrated Amplifier for Sonus Faber Guarneri Evolution

I just purchased second hand SF Guarneri Evo's. They are the nicest looking stand mounted speakers I've seen.

I'm currently driving them with a NAD M33 and I think it is not the right match for them. There is no dynamics and they sound thin to me. I think these speaker have a lot more potential.The speakers are 4 ohms with a sensitivity of 86db. I listen to jazz, blues, instrumental and classical mostly.

My room is about 13 by 17 ft.. I have a Bluesound streamer and a Denafrips Ares II DAC.

I'm open to suggestions or recommendations for a nice Integrated Amp. I have a $10-12K budget. I rather buy it used, since I think I get a better value. I live in the Los Angeles area.

Thanks.

 

 

chemarcelo

Showing 2 responses by tvrgeek

tvrgeek
299 posts
 

Are you running a sub?  It is hard to believe the NAD does not have the ooomph. Crossing to a sub, and even better if you roll off the amp input bottom end can really open up some speakers. 

Maybe because the amp is it is very clean and those SF's are , well drool drool, smooth and not over emphasized.   Have you played with any eq?  It could be you are accustomed to a little midrange boost so it sounds flat?  

You are going to have to audition in your room as at your level, it is not a difference of quality, but of preference.   It could also be you need to let your brain re-program" to the different eq of the Sonas Fabers and then you'll love the NAD again. 

Always think eq first before you blame the electronics. 

tvrgeek
299 posts
 

Agree with the DAC and streamer upgrades.  

Subs are good, but are you taking the LF load off the amp and main speakers?  That is where the real improvements come at anything above background levels. 

 You may not like the response Dirac tries for.  You might be better off playing with the eq settings in your player if you have them.   My new crossovers are flatter and a bit better phase than the previous ones. In my room, they were now way too bright which makes music lose the impact.  Backed off the treble, and the dynamics came back. 

 

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