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Totem Model 1 w/ NAD c340 amp?

I am thinking about getting some used Totem Model 1 speakers (the original model), but I am wondering whether my NAD c340 integrated amplifier will be up to the task of driving them. The need for sufficient power to do justice to the Totems seems to be a fairly consistent refrain in people's comments on them, and the NAD is only rated at 50 watts per channel. But on the other hand I understand that NAD's ratings are usually very conservative, so that leaves me hoping. Am I being naive in even considering this combination? My room is just 20x22x8, and I have no desire to listen at levels that will rock the house or make my ears ring. It is important to me, however, that bass be tight and controlled.
mhsilver1227020b
genesis168's avatar
genesis168
409 posts
 
As far as I am concerned, I have a friend who owns the same speaker you're planing on buying. From his experience, the M1's are a very fussy speaker and needs a good amp to drive them properly before sounding good. These speakers are not very efficient to begin with. NAD is not a bad amp....but it will NOT do justice to these speakers. As per Totem's recommendations, you should look at the Totem ARRO sprakers. I think there's a pair somewhere on Audiogon. They are small floorstanding speakerswhich have captured many hearts at any CES shows. Totem says that they will mate easily with any budget amp. Trust me, they sound really good.
gjrad
145 posts
 
Totem 1s are a great speaker, but you need a high quality amp and very good stands to bring out the speakers great sound.
mhsilver1227020b OP
1 posts
 
Thanks for your replies. I do know about the Arro, but I'm leaning more towards stand-mounted speakers than floorstanders. In any case, it looks like the consensus so far is that the NAD is not going to be up to the job of driving the Model 1s. Any other suggestions for pint-sized speakers with big sound and good imaging that could be had used for $750 (and that would mate satisfactorily with the NAD c340)?
gjrad
145 posts
 
If you are not going for the Totem 1s with a better amp you could try Proac, their models 1s or Tablette models might be within your budget. From what I am told they are easy to dirve even with tube grear. Its worth a look.
luoz6504
1 posts
 
I had some experience about the combo - NADC340 and Totem Mites, the least expensive Totem ,and C340-Staff, Totem's relative hi-end. Actually, the mites picks up more deal details than its big sibling, staff. Staff is really power eager. Don't about your Model-1...
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