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Suggestions for integrated amps for B&W CM10

I recently bought the Bowers and Wilkins CM10 speakers, currently paired with Peachtree Audio Nova 125. Although, the clarity and details are phenomenal, I can't help but notice two shortcomings:

1. At times, things get a bit too bright for my taste -- also, I would prefer a bit more warmth
2. It doesn't seem that the Nova has enough authority to drive the bass drivers that well. I just feel that I can get more from these speakers on the lower end without adding a separate sub.

Now, I do realize that the speakers are fairly new with less than 30 hours on them, so maybe things will get better after the break in period. And I also realize that the placement and the room characteristics are not ideal.

But having said that, I would be interested in suggestions for what other integrated amps (or even separates if affordable) go well with the CM10s and provide a bit more warmth and better base. Budget is under$2500, new or used.
128x128arafiq
mesch
3,523 posts
 
If for sure the Halo was what I wanted I would wait till I could afford one or, I would finance to buy it now as apposed to buying something else due to no interest. What would your interest be on $2500 for 12-18 months?

If I was not sure I would wait and continue explore my options. As ZD said, you have more options with separates.
mesch
3,523 posts
 
As an after thought, the Halo has a built in DAC, phonostage and bass management. Are those items you need/want in a single package?
samac's avatar
samac
499 posts
 
Arafiq, first congratulations on the CM 10s. That's just a fantastic speaker. My thoughts would be to hang in there until the B&Ws get a few more hours on them (about 100hrs). You may be right about the Peachtree.

Having just made a new speaker purchase myself I can understand budget constraints. I can suggest one relatively affordable amp you might want to check out: the Arcam FMJ A19.

It is working great with my B&W 683 S2s. It has pleasantly surprised me. Anyway, just a thought. Again, let those CM 10s settle a bit more. Take your time and enjoy the journey.

Cheers,

Scott
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,693 posts
 
Mesch - I definitely care about the DAC, and it seems they're using one of the best in the business in the parasound halo. So definitely a big plus for me.

By the way, there's an ad on craigslist for parasound:
http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/ele/5272028814.html

What do you guys think of this combo? Do you think the asking price is fair?
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,693 posts
 
Samac, thanks for your response. I actually looked at the FMJ while at Magnolia a few weeks ago. For some reason, I just didn't feel that it had enough to drive the bass drivers on the CM10s. I might be wrong though. Other than that, I agree that it's a very sweet sounding piece.

And I know that not all watts are created equal, but if I'm buying something else, I want to make sure it has at least more power than my current Peachtree (@125 w).
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