2. amps-preamps
  3. 124023-6024

Upgrade path

I'm currently running a set of Dunlavy SC4 speakers bi amped into a Theata Dreadnaught 1 amp with the 5x200 watt set up, Preamp is a Audio Research ls3. Looking for opinions on what I should up grade 1st of the 3 pieces. I was thinking a bigger amp in the 400 watt range but one that would be an noticeable improvement over the Theat which to my ears does a lot of things right. Amp wise I would not be looking to spend more than 4K 
2channeljunkie
inna
7,296 posts
 
I would most likely replace the power amp first. You never know how your speakers can sound until you give them the right amp.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,384 posts
 
I wonder how a Sanders Magtech amp would sound with the Dunlavys?
2channeljunkie OP
99 posts
 
I was kinda thinking the same. I have a line on a older Mac 2500 which has been rebuilt by Mcintosh and comes with a one year warranty. I know many don't care for Mac amps but it's in my price range and has a warranty. Grew up in a house with Mac gear all my younger years and will I have herd other big names do this or that better Mac has always been that middle of the road amp that I could listen to for hours at a time.. Will have to look up Sanders amps as I'm not familiar with them.
brauser
525 posts
 

I have a set of the Dunlavy SC-IVs along with about every other Dunlavy model that was ever made. Yes, going to larger Dunlavys will give you more bass foundation, but (loving clean deep bass as I do) I have still felt compelled to add subwoofers. John Dunlavy did design and manufacture a few Dunlavy subs in various sizes. I came across a passive Dunlavy sub that was in an SC-IV enclosure with four 10" drivers. Using a separate crossover and 200 Watt (high current) Mono amp with SC-Vs has brought bass performance to a level I wasn't sure was even possible.

My advice is keep the Dunlavys and keep an eye open for Dunlavy subs to match. It will probably take about 4K to get it right with arrangement similar what I've mentioned above.

tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,587 posts
 

It’s a good thing that different recordings sound different. You’re hearing what’s on the recording instead of a coloration imposed by your gear. A coloration may sound good at first but eventually you will notice that you’re missing things that come with uncolored sound.

I’d say stay with what you have in that area and I agree that you should get a sub or two if you want more bass. I don’t think you’ll get there with a different amp.



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