Vintage speaker upgrade suggestions?


To start it off... I'm one of those people who's trying to go hifi on a very very low budget. My find of the year was a Marantz SR2000 receiver (circa 1970+?) and a pair of Mission 710's (bookshelves, 1983+) for $100. Recently, I came across an ad for a pair of Boston Acoustics A70's for $30. My questions are as follows. The receiver is rated at 40 watts per channel. Will this be enough to adequately power the A70's? If so, how big of a difference in sound will I get? I also have the option of using these to replace a pair of Bose 401's attached to a different receiver. Lastly, I couldn't really get a straight answer out of the guys at Myer Emco when I asked whether I'd notice any difference if I were to listen to SACDs using this system. I was told "some people can hear a difference, some people can't" implying there's not a real difference.

In summation:
Is 40w/channel enough to power A70's?
How do A70's compare against Mission 710's or Bose 401's?
Would I notice any advantages in switching to SACD with these speakers/receiver?

If it helps, I listen to Jazz (mostly vocal), Classical (mostly piano) and a bit of electronic.
alo

Showing 1 response by matt39

I disagree (respectfully) with Fatparrot, in part, and I agree, again in part. I would say that the A70's and the Marantz qualify as vintage equipment and possibly the Missions as well. I think the SR2000 would drive the A70's quite effectively as they are an easy load. I still own a pair so I speak from experience. I also think they would do a good job with your musical preferences. As to whether they or the Missions could replace your Bose, I feel that is a matter of personal preference. I certainly feel the A70's are superior but it is really your opinion that matters.
Fatparrot is correct that your equipment may need some service. However this may not be all that expensive. I would recommend that you check out audiokarma.org where you can get advice and information from a group who specialize in vintage equipment. Lots of Boston and Marantz fans there and good, helpful people too.
I'll also agree that SACD is probably not the way to go unless you plan on going to a multichannel system in the future. As long as you stay with 2-channel systems you really won't be able to take advantage of the SACD format.
Anyway I hope you enjoy your equipment. I think you'll find it can give you a lot of musical satisfaction. Good luck.