2. amps-preamps
  3. 168440-163947

Rotel RA-1592 MK II or something else to deliver around 200W to B&W towers around $3000?

So I just purchased a pair of B&W CDM-9NT and am now going deep down the rabbit hole trying to find an amp that’s going to let these speakers sing to their fullest. I keep coming back to Rotel as the consensus appears to be that these amps pair very well with B&Ws. I was trying to keep the budget to $1000...then $1500...now I’m looking at $3000 options...I’m not willing to go up to the McIntosh prices at the moment so I’m capping myself at $3k new or used.

I was thinking that going integrated was the best option when looking at the $1500ish options. Now maybe separates would make sense at $3000?

Goals in sound are excellent imaging and separation. Strong and tight bass is a must. Music selection is mainly very bass forward genres like hip hop & EDM. I also enjoy jazz, rock and sometimes classical as the mood strikes. A must have is digital connectivity for hi-res streaming. The room is 14x18 if that matters.

Any help is appreciated.
yukispier

Showing 3 responses by terry9

terry9
2,253 posts
 
Bryston. They have a fantastic deal on pre-owned and reconditioned: five years' warrantee (or sometimes more). And that's a Bryston warrantee, which is the best in the business. Just contact the factory for factory reconditioned quality at very reasonable prices.

I owned two Bryston amps before I made my own. Now I have only one, bought factory reconditioned, to power the subs in my HT, because nobody builds stable, bullet-proof equipment like Bryston.
terry9
2,253 posts
 
As for amps, I know the Bryston SST series, very nice, and just a little mellow. I understand that the SST2 is a little bright, which may be the last thing you need with your speakers. SST3 is reputed to be neutral - but I haven't heard either of the latter series, so consult the factory if you are interested. 

Good luck! And welcome.
terry9
2,253 posts
 
Yuki, I think that is an excellent tactic. For lots of reasons. Concentrate on getting the big stuff right. Don't spend more than a few bucks on cables until you have the big stuff where you want it. Cables are the poorest bang for buck, IMO. YMMV

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