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Amplifier and Speaker Advice needed

A few years ago I sold off my JMLabs electra HT system (7.1). I switched to headphone gear and now am really missing my old set up. Unfortunately, I dont have the money to go that expensive again (not without certain divorce).

Here's my situation:
pre/pro: B&K ref30 (dated, i know)
room: an acoustical nightmare (2 story with open side wall)
room size: ~15 ft x 20 ft

Budget:
$1200 now
+$800 in the next 6 months

Expectations:
The room is terrible, my budget is low, my pre/pro is dates so my expectations are pretty low here. What i need is amp + speaker advice. I can even start with an amp and 2 speakers for now and add more over time. so far ive been looking at a matching B&k amp (admittedly for aesthetics) + quad 12l or totem. Other option I was considering was aragon amp with a pair of small maggies.

Im concerned that I may be setting myself up for disappointment (vs my old JMLabs). Any advice would really be appreciated!

thanks!
woodenpeter
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Used Vandersteen 2's & McCormack amp.
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,686 posts
 
Wait until you have the money to get what you really want.Throwing a few hundred here and a few hundred there will only waste money and prolong your misery.Just my opinion.
loomisjohnson
1,944 posts
 
within your budget, a used b&k amp is as good a choice as any; parasound hca is another--you can find either around $200. for speakers, i might look at either ohm walsh or mirage omnis, which aren't fussy about placement and disperse widely--they might be best able to tame your unusual room.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,232 posts
 
For a room that must be utilized as is and cannot be tamed, omni's are a very good way to go. I'd add speaks first and worry about the amp, powered sub or whatever else tickles your fancy later.
trebejo
102 posts
 
I have the Ohm Walsh and I love 'em... but as the (CURRENTLY married) original poster specified, he can only spend $1200 and that won't be enough. He can try used, but the Ohms just don't show up that often around here.

The entry-level Maggies are an excellent value, if you can make them work in your unusual room.

For the amp, I would recommend Van Alstine. You can sometimes find something used here, or also direct from them (which will include some kind of warranty), for about $500-800. Incredible price/sound ratio there.
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