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POWER AMPLIFIER FOR LOW TO MODERATE LISTENING

I currently have the following system:

1. Conrad Johnson Classic 62 power amplifier 60 watts per channel 

2. Rogue Audio preamp

3. Lumen U2 mini streamer

4. Chord Qutest DAC

5. Martin Logan 11A impressions-90DB efficient

The issue I am having is that I listen at 65 dbs, and at that level the sound is anemic. I know the 11A is a difficult load to drive as it is a hybrid electrostatic which dips below 2 ohms. I am told a high current amp is required, one whose power doubles when you go from 8 ohms to 4 ohms. I am sure that we have all noticed that at the stereo dealer when the db level is high like at 80db plus, the sound is dynamic, when the volume is reduced the life is drained out of the speakers. The Martin Logans are one year old and I am not inclined to sell. There must be an amp that brings life to these speakers at low to moderate listening levels. I experience ear pain when the spl's are high. The other route is a loudness switch/ equalizer to boost bass and treble such as the Schit Loki, which I have never used. My budget for an amp is up to about $8000.00, but I must audition in my home as I don't want to make another costly error. By the way the Conrad Johnson replaced my previous Rogue Audio 100 watt channel tube amp. I would like to get it right if at all possible.

Thank you in advance for your guidance, help and input.

 

128x128kjl1065
ghdprentice
6,435 posts
 

My system consists of 90db efficient speakers (Sonus Faber Amati) and a 70wpc (ARC REF 160s in triode mode)… it sounds fantastic at the 65db range.

I used to run planars of different kinds, and I don’t remembering them sounding great at that level… but not dead. I ran with a Pass x350. So, I am sure that would help. But also it will significantly change the character of the sound. Maybe not in a good way.

I would go borrow a Pass x350 or other amp with massive current. I would try… not buy, because if you want to keep the CJ musicality I think your best bet might be to swap speakers. I understand why you would prefer not to.

 

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,502 posts
 

I use a Loki just for that purpose and will do no critical listening without it on my 20 watt (draw) amp..

rocray's avatar
rocray
1,448 posts
 

I have two systems. Both are running First Watt amps.( J2,F5) currently both systems are running 90 db speakers at 8ohm. Right now I’m at peaks of 70 db. ( using a phone app). The majority of my listening is around this level.  I am more than happy with these amps.  

rhg3
162 posts
 

Alternatively you may wish to try Autoformer’s. I’m using them between my ARC REF 75 SE (8 Ohm taps) and Magnepan 3.7i’s. Low to moderate and high SPL all sound great, it was a huge improvement.

https://anticables.com/store/ZERO-Boxes-p14644876
 

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
1,382 posts
 

I am surprised by what you report.  I have Martin Logan CLS in my second system.  At one time I had planned to build my system around them.  I love 2 things about the Electrostats:

1.  Awesome midrange.

2.  Sound great at low volumes.  

I find they don't take nearly as much power as people think  With a sub hooked up to drive bass frequencies I hooked my Decware ZMA 40 watt tube amp up to the CLSs an it drove them just fine.  

Your ESLs are crossed over fairly high as I remember so you should only be driving mid and high frequencies with your amp, so I don't understand.

Best of luck in figuring it out.

Jerry

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