2. amps-preamps
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Amp suggestions

Hi all,

I wanted to get some advice. I am the middle of up grading my system.

Preamp: Rouge 99
CDP: Cary 303
Amp: Odyssey Stratos
Speakers: Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk II
Interconnects: Nordost Blue heavens
Speaker wire: Nordost flatline gold (upgrading)

I was thinking of upgrading my amp. I was looking for something with more current that would open up the Dynaudio. Money is an issue so I would probably go used ($2000-$3000). Any suggestions?

On the other hand I guess I could upgrade my speakers. I listen to mostly jazz and some rock/pop.
xmore
plato
1,543 posts
 
Oops, I see that in my earlier comments I referred to the "Rogue 88" when I meant to say "Rogue 99".

If you'd like a recommendation for an amp that's very open sounding and has a lot of pop, the InnerSound ESL amp works great with dynamic speakers as well as ESLs. I'm using them on my B&Ws and the sound is excellent at all volume levels. The ESL amp seems to provide more transient snap than other decent amps I've used without being harsh and it has excellent high frequency reproduction.
danheather
108 posts
 
Levinson 23.5 can be found used for a touch over 2K. I can't imagine ever needing much more. Bi-amping or bridging with another Odyssey is also a good idea that's very cost-effective. The Dynaudios are fantastic speakers that deserve to be "fed" before thinking about swapping them out. Even if you did, the Odyssey would probably be the (forgive me) weakest link in your system. That's not to say that it isn't an excellent amplifier. It's just not quite up to the same level as your associated equipment.
Kindly,

Dan
haoleb
82 posts
 
Musical Fidelity Nuvista M3, has plenty of power and is a great amp at any price. build quality and design are also superb!. And can be found New for around your price at Audioadvisor. ...Just a suggestion

Happy Listening
goodwine59's avatar
goodwine59
16 posts
 
Hi Xmore:

If you like the Stratos...why don't you get the Stratos mono amps; you have a Stratos already? Remember the conversion of your current amp is free, so you only have to buy one !!!!

If you don't like the Stratos, then a used BAT, Sierra Whitney, or a used Rowland Model 1 or 5.

I had for years a set of Dynaudio Geminis, and I know that those Esotec tweeters are extended therefore, the Stratos monos should match nicely. The monos should provide the power you are looking for.
Good luck.
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