2. amps-preamps
  3. 971133848

Are Carver amps worth a damn?

i have a system which I use for both home theatre (70%) and for music. It is comprised of a Theta data basic transport, a Nakamashi cr-2 tape deck, a Marantz AV-550 preamp /tuner, a panasonic dvd player and a proscan vcr. For amplification I have been using 2 Carver TFM-35's and a TFM-15 for the surrounds. I have an unpowered sub so I get 1 channel of 250w to the front 3 and the sub, and 100wpc to the surrounds. For speakers I am using Definitives all the way around. Are the amps my current weak link in this system?
gsxer
sonicbob
31 posts
 
Hello,I have a pair of Carver TFM-35 amps in my all Carver system.I just compared a Parasound HCA-3500 and even my son said that the Carvers sounded much better! Yes I have heard some amps with a little more detail but none compare to the dynamics and soundstage without the listener fatigue of some so called high-end amps.Also I would use the two TFM-35 amps in a vertical bi-amp setup and buy another amp for the sub and center channel.And the TFM-35 amps do not limit current like a lot of other amps do that is why they are so dynamic.If you have the upgrade bug I would try the Sunfire amps.Good Luck SonicBob
asfortier
6 posts
 
I had a TFM-35 in my HT setup for awhile. It got replaced by an Adcom GFA-585 limited, which just absolutely blew the carver out of the water. IMHO, The TFM-35 is definitely a weak spot in your system.
ercoli
5 posts
 
NO NO NO NO NO NO NO... Oh, by the way, NO! Get a McCormack or Classe
kitch29
316 posts
 
I'm currently living in exile with only an outlaw audio receiver for company, we thought home theatre would help pass the time. (Not much to do here on Elba) Except for the semi-annual Armageddon type blockbuster, home theatre is still just TV. Recently fell off the wagon and bought a pair of Kestrel's. Now I'm wondering about outlaw front end and tube amp. Heard about the Arcam's with an HT input, but I don't know if I want integrated and with CD's, tubes seem attractive. Some of you seem to live in countries which have actual hi-end showrooms, hoping for advice. Only good ears need apply.
wsmatau
40 posts
 
To echo some others thoughts....yes....If you consider Sunfire with the Carver line. I own a Cinema Grand and love it. I personally think it is one of the most flexible bang for the buck amps on the market. There are better sounding amps and more powerful amps but not both anywhere near what you can buy the Sunfire equipment for. IMHO your best upgrade would be to find a dedicated Pre-amp/ tuner that you like.
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