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Looking for ideas - new mono blocks for stereo music

Hello!

I am on a bit of a mission to upgrade my equipment and just recently purchased the Esoteric K-01X SACD player.
In my case, the primary focus for critical listening is stereo music (aka red book CD) from the Esoteric.
My current chain is from the Esoteric through the Marantz 8802A into the Bryston 7B-SST2 powering a pair of JBL 1400 Array speakers.
I am very happy with the JBLs and just upgraded to the K-01X (had the X-03SE before).

Right now I would like to hear some suggestions for new mono blocks. I am already planning on adding the Esoteric C-03X(s) to the system to replace the Marantz as (stereo) pre-amp.

The primary focus is detail and resolution as I really love hearing new aspects of CDs that previous equipment couldn't reveal.
Soundstage and instrument placement are also high on the list. Bass slam / impact is not really a priority since I am stuck in an apartment for the time being.
Another factor is heat - I am looking for an amp, not a space heater. Especially considering the already hot summers in Toronto!
The price ceiling for me is somewhere around $20,000/pair

My current short list consists of:
Grandinote
Pass Labs
Simaudio
Mark Levinson

Now it's time for the brainpool (that's you guys!) to have at it :)

Thanks in advance!
128x128eohtar
notesaddict's avatar
notesaddict
63 posts
 
I’ve enjoyed the Krell 575 monoblocks for 6 months. Not a day goes by that I am not thoroughly happy with them. No problems with heat. 
doitwithlife's avatar
doitwithlife
98 posts
 
Another vote to consider the bhk 300. Been lusting for them. Luckily they arrive next week, going to be a momumental upgrade
zeee
2 posts
 
using ampzilla 2000 2nd edition monoblocks & very happy with them.  300 watts into 8Ω & 540 watts into 4Ω.  no issues with heat.

https://www.sst.audio/ampzilla-1/
ggc
178 posts
 
Hi eothar,

I am Joining this discussion late, but if your still checking in I would concur with those who say that your issues would lay more with your power delivery. Your amps, 600W@8 ohms, have twice the rated power necessary to run your speakers. Your amps are not being maximized to their fullest potential - they are not getting enough power. If you have 20K to spend look towards Cabling. 

Also your JBLs have a frequency response of 32hz -40khz, you may want to consider adding a pair of subs. I had a pair of speakers with the same frequency response. I adjusted my power cables and added a pair of subs which gave me the desired effect you are looking to achieve.

My suggestion for getting the best value added out of $20K
Start by adding these cables, which would be better than adding  power amp to your system.

Stage 3 Concepts - will open up the soundstage and resolution - provide clean detailed bass and spacial separation you are craving - Think Krakens. 
www.stage3concepts.com

HB Power distributor - Power Slave....
www.hb-cable-design.com

Thales - for the price the best speaker cables you will ever own will add the detail you are seeking
www.tonarm.ch

I looked to REL for my sub Issues. JL makes great products as well - look for ones with at least a 15" drivers to pair with your JBLs. 

What I have realized is that most Speakers that have Frequency responses that run below 21 hz are usually have active subs.
The few that are not are astronomically high priced, except Devore's
Silverbacks - discontinued.

Good Luck
 





 
janewyman
81 posts
 
If you get a chance to listen to a pair of Vandersteen mono's I don't think you would be disappointed.They are , to me, very good looking, too.  
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