Integrated Amp for Focal 1027be speakers


I'm looking a integrated amp for my Focal 1027be speakers. I previously owned the Sim I-7 before I decided to go with a 5 channel Classe SSP600/CA5100 set-up. Now I'm thinking about going back to a dedicated 2 channel system and selling my 5 channel system. I'm using the Oppo 95 for cds and the Olive 04hd as a music server with Synergistic tesla interconnect and speaker cables.

I could go with separates but I hear that many of the newer integrated amps are pretty close to separates. I would go with separates if I could get a deal. Since the Focals can sound a little bright on lower quality recordings, I'm hoping to find find an amp that would go good with the Focals. I prefer solid state equipment since I don't want to hassle with tubes. I've considered the Sim 700i, Pass INT-150, and ModWright KWI 200 with the optional built in DAC.
128x128ronrags
Interested to hear how the modwright is working out for you. I have a pair of Focal 1007Be's and tried the INT30 and sent it back as I felt the 30 ran out of breathing room on some of the more percussive passages of large symphonic works. I am seriously looking at going with the XA60's with an XP 10.

Chuck
I'd love to hear a kwi200 with my Harneth C7es3's. I love these speakers paired with a high current amp. Good luck with your findings. I hope it sounds as nice as it looks. Don't forget to keep us posted.
The MW KWI-200 is a well built and designed amp. As mentioned in another thread it is a reference amp in its price range and has plenty of power to drive most any speaker load. I have had mine for a year now and still am impressed each time I play it, the amp is driving my Selah Tempesta's and are a joy to listen too. In short when compared to its peers. .. this amp really does shine it is a great value for the dollars invested.
I have around 150 hours on the unit and it's still opening up. I really enjoy the larger soundstage than I had with my other amps (Pass INT-150 and Sim I-7). The Sim sounded very controlled and tight but less dimensional and dry. There is one thing I don't like at this point is the Focals sound brighter at times and a little harsher than with the other amps especially with female voices. I changed the speaker cables from the Synergistic Accelerators to the older Signature 2 and it helped a little. Another agoner suggested I stick with the amp since he believes it needs a min of 500 hours to break-in. I'll keep you posted.
The MW IA needs around 400 hrs to be broken in, this has been stated on Dan's AC circle. The MW does have a warmth to it's sound, and the Focal's are also a warm sounding speaker. I believe if you continue to stick with the MW you will have a good outcome. If you have not done so yet, check out his forum on AC.