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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
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).
samac's avatar
samac
499 posts
 
Arafiq, glad you were able to hear the A19. The Parasound Halo looks like an outstanding option. I listened to the Anthem 225 about a week ago and it was excellent as well.

Lots of great stuff out there. You'll get those CM10s running great in no time.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
By the way, there's an ad on craigslist for parasound:
dallas.craigslist

What do you guys think of this combo? Do you think the asking price is fair?
Price is fair if the units are in good condition, both operationally and cosmetically. But the P7 is an analog surround sound preamp with facilities for 7 channels. And no DAC.

The seller is willing to split the pair and is asking $475 for the amp. Not bad, and it is still a current model and will drive your CM10's effortlessly. You can match it with Parasounds new P5 2 Channel preamp for only $1095 brand new. It is cheaper than the used P7 and has what you want. Now your at $1570 for the pair.

http://www.parasound.com/p5.php
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