2. amps-preamps
  3. 191434-23267

What Power Amplifier Should I Buy?

I am looking to increase my system power. I currently am using a Bryston 2.5B cubed, which is specified at 135 Watts/CH. I am using Revel f208 speakers crossed over at 120 Hz to a 15" HSU sub. The f208 speakers have 88.5 dB sensitivity (Amir measured 88-89dB SPL at 1W into 8 ohms). I sit about 7.5 feet away from the speakers and listen up to 92 dB SPL, but mostly stay between 80-90 dB SPL at my listenin g location.

I have not had power issues. I've never seen a clipping light. I just want more oomph. I've never had a power amp with more power than the 2.5B cubed.

My budget is about $5K. I have been looking at some used 4b cubed amps.

My preamp is a vintage ML No. 38s. Digital from Bryston BDP-3/BDA-3 combo. Analog using Koetsu RS and Shelter 901 cartridges into an SUT (20x) followed by a very vintage Paragon System E used as a phono preamp (I have fully repaired this preamp, particularly the power supply).

I like the sound of the 2.5B cubed. I had a Cary 120 tube amp for some time, but grew tired of the heat and the continuous maintenance, including the insane prices for tubes. I did not experince that great "tube sound" that others rave about. I sold the Cary and went back to the 2.5B cubed.

Will the 4B cubed disappoint?

What other amps should I consifder, new or used?

Thanks for your help!

 

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zlone
652 posts
 

All good suggestions here, but I browsed the 2009 Stereophile review of your preamp, and the overall impression I get is that it is ‘polite’. It sounds to me like you want something a bit more dynamic, so it might be worth some investigation. As for an amp recommendation, I can only recommend Coda, as that is what I have. Find a used #8. I would look at the preamp first though.

dayglow
1,889 posts
 

Update/Upgrade your preamp and phono preamp. Seriously consider same brand synergy.

sbayne's avatar
sbayne
493 posts
 

Current is what drives a loudspeaker - not watts. If you want more "umph" look for a high current amp that puts out at least 40A. Basic math tells us at your listening distance your Revel f208 (with 89db sensitivity) will put out over 94db with 10 watts at 1 meter. So, its not watts you are lacking. As previously mentioned, Klauss at Odyssey Audio sells extremely high value, high current amps and I bet one of his amps would provide what you are looking for.

wsrrsw's avatar
wsrrsw
1,005 posts
 

Another vote for a pair of subs.

Likely the Revel f208's may not 'get 'er done." ( You removed the Usher speakers. ) Perhaps investing in better $peakers is the key.

The single sub may be vibrating your gear especially the turntable. 

Room is well treated so it's not that.

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
974 posts
 

I agree that the pre may be the issue.  You might consider the new Bryston BR20 and collapse the BDP-3,BDA and pre all into one box.  The sale of those components cover a good portion of the BR

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