2. amps-preamps
  3. 160706-141149

Power amp recommendation for Harbeth 30.2s

It’s not that I don’t like my current setup, it’s just that I wonder whether a more powerful amp would give the music more heft.  I’m running a pair of Harbeth 30.2s through a Prima Luna EVO 300 preamp driven by a vintage YBA Passion SS 400 power amp (purchased second hand from a reputable dealer).  I listen primarily to music streamed  from my FLAC stored collection on my NAS or from Qobuz through a Bluesound Node 2 into a Chord Qutest.   The YBA is very transparent and I love the sound of my system, but sometimes wonder on certain types of music whether a more powerful amp would be an improvement.  I like the idea of a SS or hybrid power amp paired with a tube preamp.  I chose the although  the Prima Luna preamp after listening to a Prima Luna integrated against a Hegel H590 (I had previously owned the Hegel H190) and purchased the YBA at the same time.  My listening choices are varied (folk, jazz, alternative, vocal, rock (not metal), so I’m not looking for ear shattering volume.  I don’t like the idea of a tube power amp due to both cost and how hot they can run.  I’m captivated by the Pass amps, but they are expensive.  I’ve also wondered about the Van Alstine hybrid amps.  I’m throwing this out to the experts because I may be overthinking this and should just be satisfied with the YBA until it finally fizzles (it’s pretty old).  Thoughts?
bfleetwood

Showing 1 response by mike_in_nc

mike_in_nc
1,127 posts
 
You’ll have to try it to see. Many do like more powerful amps with Harbeths. But to some degree that’s just one factor in choosing an amp that you like with your speakers. The reason the discussions are inclusive is that it’s a matter of taste and preference. I am rather objectively oriented, but I'm always surprised at how different the sound is from different amps paired with a set of speakers.

My own preference is for powerful amps. To me, they give better control of the speakers and better bass. I’m using a Bryston 4B3 now; and the 14B SST I used before sounded GREAT. With my P3ESRs, I’m using a Marsh Sound Design A400s (200 wpc into 8 ohms, 330 wpc into 4).
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