Can a new amplifier affect speaker placement?


Hi all,

So I went out and got me a shiny new amp. One thing I'm certain I've noticed is the bass isn't as rich as with the old amp. The new amp is well-known for its bass response. The old one may have been too (don't remember) - but it's less than half the power and a fourth the cost of the new one. Both amps are overachievers in their price category. In short - I've trouble believing my little Creek 5350SE has bigger bass than my NAD M2. I wonder if something else is going on. Has anyone had to re-position their speakers, following a new amp purchase?
sturgl
Years ago I replaced my amp with one that was three times the price and the lesser one sounded better.You can't go by price and power with this stuff,as a matter of fact I generally prefer the sound of lower power amps.Many things come into play like damping factor,type of output (I prefer fets)power into different loads,etc.I would try to return it because you will never enjoy it.
Another solution is get a small inexpensive subwoofer to supplement the bass. There are plenty offerings from SVS, SUNFIRE, PARTSEXPRESS, PSB, etc.
I'd give it some time to settle -- more than anything, in your own mind. Get used to the sound, and why it's different. (That is, unless you're looking at a return window in which you need to make decisions, but even then, give it as much as you can). When you say that the bass isn't as rich, what do you mean. Leaner, less boomy, tighter, faster, less extension, less textured, less energy...? Some of these things can be good thing, some of them less so. Could be that the amp is simply less capable of controlling your woofers. Could be that it is more capable, and that what you're hearing less of is actually a product of better control and more accuracy. Could be that, whichever it is, it really doesn't matter because you prefer the sound of the Creek. So, sure, can happen -- any of those things. Could also be that moving your speakers will give you better (or worse) results. I'd experiment with all that. And put in some time with the new one -- as much as you can or have patience for -- then switch back. I've always found that switch back to be the most enlightening moment regarding whether the change was worth it. Just my two cents.
Both amps are overachievers in their price category.
Sturgl
03-07-13


Yes, all amps in specific, and equipment in general, are overacheivers in their price category. LOL! I'm sorry, but that just sounds like sales-speak to me. A component's performance and price are not directly linked.

Don't buy the hype, listen with your own ears, and let them be the judge. If the NAD is brand new, give it some time to burn in, but just because it cost more does not mean it will be better than your old amp.