2. amps-preamps
  3. 194087-203505

Picking a power amp

Hi folks,

I'am trying to pick a power amp for a modest system(15,000)

My listening area is 12x20.

I have a MX110z tuner preamp,and a Adcom 545 100wt per channel power amp now.

I just got a Auralic Vega g1 and it sounds great to me.

I'am using tidal to the the streamer and like it a lot.

It is time to pick a power amp or speakers.

I currently have 25 year old Polk m10's and since getting the auralic,I'am fairly surprised how much better they sound.

I don't know whether to get speakers or a amp next,to get to the next level.

Amps I'am considering are Mac 225,240,275 if tube or Mac 7270 or 2205 SS.

I'am also considering AR,and CJ if I could find something 2,000-5,000

For speakers I was thinking Klipsch for tube amp or Sonus Faber if SS,if I can find a model that can do rock and used under 5,000.

I listen to 40% rock 40% pop,blues,soul 20% classical,jazz.

Any thoughts on where to go next.

Thanks

 

twangy57
mm1tt77
197 posts
 

The Klipsch and Sonus Faber are really different sound signature speakers, in general, really depends on what sounds good to you.  Sonus Faber tend to need more power, have a warmer sound, Horns are way more efficient, crisp sounding.  If ther is anyway you could audition both would be ideal.  I would lean toward Sonus Faber all day but that’s based on what I like.  Lots of different models to chose from.  Mac gear would work well with either, if you went amp first, I’d go Mac SS amp, you will get some tube magic with the pre. 

twangy57 OP
220 posts
 
mm1tt77

Thanks for the info.

I have heard Klipsch Chorus 2's with a tube Mac set up and loved it.

I will try and get somewhere to check out the Sonus Faber in person.

 

 

100boardwalk
18 posts
 

Unfortunately I have not heard a 7270 in many years, so I'm not able to give you a meaningful review. I believe it is very well regarded, and at a conservatively rated 270 watts/ch, will easily drive most speakers in your price range. I'm confident that there will be great synergy with your Mac preamp. If you have the opportunity to audition it, it might be worthwhile. I saw one on US Audiomart for $3500, so somewhere around $2400-$2800 seems reasonable if in good electronic and cosmetic condition. Good luck!

twangy57 OP
220 posts
 
100boardwalk

Thanks,I guess I will nail down my speaker choice first as to better match the power amp to them.

 

lordmelton's avatar
lordmelton
1,045 posts
 

Others have recommended ATC, why not have a look at the ATC active speaker range. Big savings on amplifiers and speaker cables. Just a thought.

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