2. amps-preamps
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How does high-pass filter requirement affect system decisions?

I've been thinking about my Ayre AX-7e that drives my Vandersteen Quattro CTs (the AX-7e had the required high-pass filter installed by Ayre). Other than the obvious, how does that filter affect system choices?

For example, I'd assume the current-delivery requirements are reduced, the need to damp back-EMF is reduced, and perhaps the speaker cable characteristics change (since they are not carrying as much low-frequency, high-current information). Are massively overbuilt amplifiers really necessarily to bring out the best from the Quatros?
128x128nrenter
randyhat
156 posts
 
Interesting discussion.  I am awaiting delivery of a pair of Quatro CT and am beginning to evaluate my amplifier needs.  In fact I started a separate thread asking for advice on amp/preamp options with the Quatro CT.  I wish my Vandersteen dealer also carried Ayre as I am intrigued by this combo.  They primarily pair the Vandersteens with ARC amps.  As much as I am pre-disposed to SS amps, I am curious about the ARC REF 75SE.  I am thinking that 75 watts might be all I need...especially considering the high pass filtering will be relieving the amp of it's deeper bass duties.
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
Randyhat, Vandersteen recommends 40-200wpc for the Quatro's, so 75 should be in the sweet spot-especially if you are high passing to the subs.
I think one of the nice things about Vandy's is that they play well with a lot of equipment.
I am in transition to an Atma-Sphere amp and preamp with the Treo's. I never used tubes before, so this is going to be a new realm I'm entering. After 30 years, I had to give it a try.
nrenter's avatar
nrenter OP
766 posts
 
@goheelz, the taper on the IEC end of the Pangea Audio AC 9 MKII power cable allows it to fit easily. The downside to this cable is that it's very heavy and not very flexible.
nrenter's avatar
nrenter OP
766 posts
 
@randyhat given the rolloff required for the powered subs in the Quatros, the difference of a few 10's of Watts may not be a significant factor. I'm over in Flower Mound (and I set up my Quatro CTs on my own). Once you know the "tricks" it's pretty easy to do. 

randyhat
156 posts
 
Thanks for the information. The dealer is going to set them up but I want to learn the process myself.  Is there a problem with the power cables that come with the Quatro? I am so tired of thick and inflexible chords and cables. I know this may be audiophile heresy but when I reconfigure all my equipment in my new audio cabinet I am going to replace any cable or power chord that cannot easily be positioned.  I know that cables can make a difference but I am tired of the rats nest of garden hoses behind all my equipment.  :-)  

We are neighbors. I'm in Denton.
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