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Amplifier for Monitor Audio RX 8 system

Greetings: I own a Monitor Audio Silver RX 8 package (5.2 system with two MA subwoofers); currently I do not have a dedicated processor and use Pioneer Elite VSX 53 as my processor. I have a Parasound Halo A21 powering my fronts however would rather have one 5 channel/ 7 channel amp powering all speakers (for space constraints); at some point I would move to a dedicated processor with balanced outputs so the amp I will have must have balanced connections as well. I am looking at a Parasound Halo Amp (A51) or a Cary Audio 7.125 Amp - in case of the Cary Audio I will bi amp the front speakers as it is less powerful than the A51. In your opinion, what would match best with the MA silver speakers? Do you suggest a different amp? Many thanks for your help in advance.

Sincerely ...
sonodyne2065
sonodyne2065 OP
2 posts
 
Thank you for your comments; Paraneer - the A21 is excellent and creates a fantastic combo as paired with my RX 8 speakers.

Let me demo both and I can then make an informed decision -once again - thank you.
4hannons's avatar
4hannons
187 posts
 
In my experience with Monitor Audio -- mostly the RS-6 -- the best sound came from using tubes, which gave a tremendous soundstage and the sense of ease and space between instruments that I've rarely experienced with any other speaker/amp combo.

The RX and RS series are very efficient speakers which allows the use of lower power tube amps. Another option I like was using a McCormack DNA-1 -- very satisfying but different from tubes, more of a clean sound with lots of inner detail, but still buttery smooth and effortless.

Heck, even an old B&K ST-140 sounded decent if you don't have a lot to spend on amperage. Not as much detail and soundstage but still very pleasant to the ear. JHMO.
--Tom in Sacramento
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,789 posts
 
What I said earlier; Monitor Audio is the only brand which make speakers in all there price ranges which can give depth. You will not find any brand which can make even cheap speakers who can give depth. Tubes can create much easier depth than most solid state amps. I sold a lot RS8 and RS6 in the past. I sold the RS8 with Primare. It gave a stunning 3-D image. All the other shops sold 2-dimensional sound for the same money. I had a lot of fun. I did send my cleints to those shops to understand the difference.
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