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need help with 5 channel amp

I have paradigm studio 100s and I am in desperate need of an amp. I am looking at the Parasound 2205, anthem mca5, ATI 1505, and the outlaw amp. I am on a budget and will buy used. The ATI worries me because it only has 150 watts and I think I will need more power then that. I am sure the parasound is the best but it also is the most expensive and I would have to buy it used. Also I liston to 2 channel music a lot so which one of these amps would be best for that. What would you all choose.
enantoisf218
enantoisf218 OP
1 posts
 
my budget is around 1500 tops
argent
245 posts
 
Go with a used Parasound or Acurus. Both make a 5 channel. I've seen the Acurus used for $1250. I haven't looked at Paradigm speakers for several years, but if I remember correctly they are fairly easy to drive. Are you sure you need more than 150 watts--or even that much? Both the Parasound and the Acurus pack a pretty big punch. You might audition these amps new in a store with some comperable speakers to help you zero in on the one you like. Good luck.
dhodges
8 posts
 
I use the Anthem MCA 5 in my home theater setup. It has 200 x 5. The new mkii version can be had new for about $1000. There is even an add on this site for them. I have been happy with the sound of it.
wcj56
47 posts
 
When I was looking, it came down to two the ATI 1505 and the Sunfire Cinema Grande. The ATI was just as strong as the Sunfire in all regards. I was leaning towards the ATI until I found a Sunfire for $1250. So I have a Sunfire Cinema Grande and have been pleased with it but, IMHO I would have been happy either way. Classe also makes a very nice 5 channel that would easily compare to the ones you have been naming. Earthquake Cinenova has been highly reviewed also. Hope that helps, good luck.
massvm
126 posts
 
In regards to your concern about power, I drove Studio 100s in a surround setup for about a year with a Proceed Amp-5. At 125 watts per channel, the 100s could be driven to quite loud listening levels. Unless your room is quite large, the 100s at 89 dB sensitivity should provide fairly enjoyable volumes with a 150 watt/channel amp.

My opinion, for what it's worth.
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