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soundstage question: McIntosh Autoformers (MA8950) vs tube amps (chi-fi - sigh)

A few months ago, I bought MA8950 to drive my Sonus faber Electra Amator III bookshelf speakers. I also have a separate chi-fi setup with $300 tube-amp (Class A SET, apparently) and Klipsch bookshelves. 

I'm trying to understand the science behind soundstage. In the same room, the tube-amp with Klipsch speakers seem to throw the sound all over the place while the McIntosh setup doesn't do that. The only other differing factor are the cables and speaker wire. 

My guess is, one of the two are true: 
A. Klipsch are a more revealing speaker (8ohm and 96dB) while the Sf aren't (4 ohm and 88dB)
B. The tube amp is doing its magic

A means that the output stage in relation to the room is everything
B means that the McIntosh autoformers are likely "suppressing" something

I didn't dare hook up the tube amp to the Sf speakers; idk what would happen to the speakers. 

Now I think it's A. But if someone thinks it is B - then I'm curious. What exactly is happening with the autoformers that might be causing this? 

Thank you. 

nathandfwacoustics
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,269 posts
 

No,  the 8950 should have plenty of power. ...    it has 4 Ohm taps so it can drive the SF no sweat.    Its the cheap amp that will struggle.   

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,269 posts
 

My Dad's set up sounds fantastic.   I would definitely be proud to own that system.    You should have a grin ear to ear when you listen to that combo.  

My second system is solid state and it sounds really great.  Especially for it's small form factor.    So I like a well match SS system too 

It's more about speaker/ amp synergy than anything else , assuming the room isn't the issue.   

mark200mph
472 posts
 

The klipsch are way more efficient  and require less power.they also most likely have horns that play louder with lower watts. Make sure you are using the 4 ohm tapes off the mcintosh and they are hooked up in phase with proper polarity. It is well documented that mcintosh is well paired with sonus faber.try the klipsch with the mcintosh and change the speaker wire make sure at least 12 gauge or 10 gage wire and how long are the speaker wire runs. Enjoy the experiments.

mambacfa
94 posts
 

I’ve owned comparable, but not identical equipment (on the high-power, solid state, box speaker side and the tube amp plus efficient horn or transmission line or open baffle speakers.) In my experience the tube amp matched with the efficient horn speakers are the perfect combo for imaging and soundstage. Adding a sub makes this even better. Also so much more engaging. 

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