2. amps-preamps
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Where do I start-amp or speakers ?

While in the midst of downsizing I sold all my gear: Krell monos, Thiel CS6’s, Thiel 2.4’s, EAD Powermaster 2000, Thiel MCS1, etc.
I am now left with a headphone system based on the entry level Schitt headphone amp, Freya preamp,& a very nice Vinyl NIrvana Thorens 125 turntable,
So how’s that working out for you, you ask? Not so well. I need speakers & amp!
 I went from 2900 sq ft. To 1600 sq ft; a 25x24 room to an 18 x 16 room (high 20-24 ft cathedral ceiling, though, at least.)
I’m now on the way to build a new system , one component at a time; Ceiling is 4K per unit. Every time I see a nice amp, then I see a fine pair of speakers. Back and forth. Do I start with an amp or with speakers? Input, input........
michaeljbrown
parabolic
106 posts
 
I posted this some thought just recently.

Speakers. Because they’re typically the weakest link in the chain, most room dependent, add the most coloration and characteristics by virtue of their design (dipole, cone, horn, etc), and define the power demands of an amp.

So, start there and work your way backward.
Speakers
Amp
Pre
Source
Cables

Just must two cents. Make of it what you will.
justvintagestuff
104 posts
 
... my 2 cents worth:
Invest in your amp - it is the heart of your system.
You can more easily experiment with speakers (both dealers and some manufacturers have demos you can borrw for in-home accessment

I'd go SS Integrated with pre-outs and main-in, giving you even more flexibility to use your tube preamp...
cjwessing's avatar
cjwessing
32 posts
 
Great discussion!  I was using a Krell S-1000 pre/pro with a Levinson 433 amp and Thiel CS-2.4 speakers and loved them.  I swapped in a Meridian 861 preamp and B&W 803S speakers because I got some good deals on them.  Currently using the Thiels with a McIntosh MA-5200 in a second system and that is also a good match, but the MA-5200 isn’t technically rated for 4 ohm speakers.  PM me know if you’re interested in the Krell preamp or Thiel speakers.
Happy Hunting!
Chris
http://www.socalhifi.com
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Some of you find changing speakers easier than changing a component? Really?
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,466 posts
 
LOL!

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