2. amps-preamps
  3. 162678-147732

Living room system: class A or AB amps?

Would class A be suitable for a living room system? Apart from hi-fi listening sessions, it's also used a lot for watching TV.

Would it make more sense to get good class AB amplifiers, which can be switched on permanently without drawing huge amounts of power? I wouldn't want to warm-up an amp first before getting good sound.

For this system, I have so far only purchased the speakers: Focal Stella Utopia Evo. Room is big: 1,200 square feet with openings to hallways.

I'd consider to pair them with Gryphon Mephisto and Pandora. But that's class A...

Opinions and amp suggestions are welcome!

robert1976
barts's avatar
barts
728 posts
 
To OP, If I had just spent 100K or 65K on sale for that matter. I would think it a no-brainer to jump on a plane and go to the highest of the high-end dealerships who sells Focal and audition amps in a large space. Obviously you're going to spend the dough it takes to get the rest of it correct, meaning to YOUR liking.  Good luck...let us know.
Regards,
barts
daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
592 posts
 
Turn on the AC and enjoy the music.  Those are quite nice speakers that justify good amplification at big cost.  Heat may be hard to avoid and Class D may not sound right.
aberyclark
1,359 posts
 
I have to agree with Millercarbon. Purchase on sound, not the class. 
larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,009 posts
 
I like the ARCAM AVR 850.  They have class G technology which provides pure class A for the first 50 watts.
rshad0000
269 posts
 
I have Utopia Scala Evos and use mine similar to the way you will(music, TVs, and movies).   If you have the dollars I would go with Gryphon(you can adjust the bias) or Naim.   Both are great with Focals in my opinion.   Good luck!  
More to discover