2. amps-preamps
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Is an amp the next upgrade path for me? Advice...

Hi all, love the forum, long time fan, and a past purchaser of equipment from here.

My equipment prior to 3 weeks ago, were:
Axiom Audio M22Ti, Arcam a65plus integrated, Axiom EP 125 sub, Squeezebox touch, wiring/power all stock.

Recently purchased a set of PSB Imagine T towers to replace the m22.
Very happy with my decision, soundstage has really opened up!!

Of course, I am now limited to the volume I can play my music (I prefer 2 channel), and have noticed things falling apart a bit at higher volumes, mostly with the higher freq. output. The subwoofer I have at 50hz and below, and used mostly to add a lithe bit of "pop" to the electronica music I so much enjoy. Room size is smallish, say 12 feet b/w me and speakers, but will probably employing these in a larger space soon.

What should my next step up be? I'm interested in larger, more expansive soundstage. I want more "feeling" the music, with a bit more lower end. I want to try and improve the higher end "shrill" that I can get with higher volumes.

I AM NOT intersted in changing speakers, as I'm very happy with these towers.
I AM NOT interested in chancing cables, as I am just not completely sold on this upgrade path, at least, at the current level of equipment I have.

Would you recommend an outboard amp? Higher power Rotel or musical fidelity, for example? And how much power? ( I do want something that will last a long time, with further upgrades in speakers, and larger power req. in the future)
Would you recommend a change completely from the integrated to a much nicer integrated unit with higher output?
If I were to spend 1,000$ on a newer higher powered integrated vs 1000$ on a power amp, where would I see the MOST benefit.
Would you recommend a change the subwoofer either in addition to, or alone as a substantial upgrade?

I appreciate all your input! My budget is probably in the 1K range.

thanks all!
H
mrhdream
kbarkamian
647 posts
 
I would say the bare Squeezebox is the weakest link, as it's not up to the level of the rest of the gear IMO (I'm sure many would disagree), but your speakers are most likely being underpowered. While its pretty much impossible to diagnose clipping on a forum without actually hearing it, I'd bet that that's what's going on or you're very close to it. The A65+ is a 40 or 45 watt amp. It's a great amp when it's driving speakers within its limits/comfort zone, but I'm pretty sure your speakers aren't within that zone.

If you get an integrated or power amp is a matter of preference. If you're planning on eventually getting a dedicated preamp, a power amp makes sense. If not, a better and more powerful integrated makes sense.

NAD is a natural match for PSB, as they're owned by the same parent company and I'm pretty sure they use each other's gear in voicing. I like the McCormack amps better, but unless you're getting a dedicated preamp, you may get better results with an NAD integrated.

I think the best deals in town right now are Cambridge integrateds. The current line has been discontinued, and you can get new in box ones for about half off. The 840a was about $1800, and is now about $1k. Spearit Sound has several listed here with full warranty. I think they sound a lot better than the NADs and are better built.

I haven't dealt with Spearit Sound, but I know several people who have. All had nothing but great things to say about them.

I'd get a good integrated, save up, and then get a good DAC for the Squeezebox, but that's just me.
sunnyjim
927 posts
 
I would stay away from McCormack amps; their non deluxe models are mediocre, and in order to lift their performance to "shocking improvement" you will have to spend at least $2000 in upgrades. The Odyssey Stratos is a possibility if you can find one with at least the first level of upgrades

My choice would be the little known internet marketer called Red Dragon Audio which offers several models of digital MONOBLOCK amps. Their M-500 (250RMS) is amazing for its price of $1400 a pair, which on sale could be much less, They are built well and smart looking....Speaker connectors are somewhat hinky, but an excellent value overall. Check out Audiogon's Industry Directory....if it is still working. Of course you will a preamp, or pre-amp with DAC

If you must do an integrated amp, look for a used Creek Destiny I. In addition, Bel Canto has an integrated amp of about 150RMS with their own DAC built in, and a decent MM stage if you still play vinyl. The BC unit will also to my knowledge, accomodate you current computer audio needs
mrhdream OP
10 posts
 
Thanks all for the great feedback!
So after thinking (of course while listening my beautiful little system :) I think I've realized that power is probably the thing I need/want/require the most.

I have looked at the belcantos, which are great power wise, but unfortunately the usb dac would not work properly with the Squeezbox, and I'm not interested in having a separate PC connected to this system.

TheNADS seem nice, but I will admit, I can be vain, and the "look" just does not do ANYTHING for me. Boring, just imho of course!!

Now the Odyssey Stereo amp seems to really stand out to me, I absolutely love the look, modern, yet unobtrusive, all around class. The specs seem up to par, with good power output 150w/ch into 8ohm, with decent current rating of >45, I think plenty for these PSB speakers, and would be good for upgrades down the road.

I really do like my integrated, just not the power output.
Now if there is an integrated that accepts digital inputs, and its own built in dec, with good power output, and a reasonable price, I would be sold!
I'm just not sure that's going to happen.

I figure, get the power now.. Save up, and get a nice pre-amp, possibly one with processor/dac, etc... in the future.
Does this sound reasonable to you all?

Any other amps you recommend I check out other than Odyssey: Something with looks, power >120 watts, and a decent current rating?

Also, in regards to changing the power supply of the squeezebox, after some reading, it does seem like a reasonable upgrade. I'm usually hesitant on power/cable upgrades, but it seems as though this one might be junk. Not sure how much is needed to spend on such a thing however....

thanks again for all your feedback!
Looking forward to responses.
H
lougiants
76 posts
 
In the price range(1K) you mentioned and the above 100 watts (quality)I can think of a few and some have already been mentioned:

Classe CA-101
McCormack DNA-125
Odyssey Stratos or Khatargo
Parasound Halo A23
B&K ST125
Belles 150 Hot Rod

Out of these I owned the B&K, which was nice, very warm sounding.
I currently own the CA-101 wich is a step up in performance - thought bass performance is not top notch with the Classe.

Best of luck to you.
sunnyjim
927 posts
 
Lou, Regarding your list: Can you or anyone explain the basis of why McCormack amps get so much attention and praise??.

The DNA-125 is 10 or more years old; McCormack, as a viable company to the best of my knowledge is out of business and was subsequently bought by Conrad Johnson, and SMc only does upgrades on the older Mc amps

McCormack DNA-125 cannot out perform the Odyssey Khartago which is 130 a channel, has received good reviews; and, I would bet the Stratos Standard would smoke it.
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