2. home-theater
  3. 1262890434

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
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,685 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
1,941 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
22,154 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.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Vandy's and the Ohms, both excellent calls!! you can't go wrong with a McCormack amp, or an older, and stellar say I, Parasound, maybe a 2200.
More to discover