2. amps-preamps
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Beginner Audiophile. How to chose a right amp? Recommendation for my setup?

Hi

I am new to the world of audio and looking for an enjoyable stereo setup for myself.

I have chosen my next set of speakers, DAC, and a streamer, but can’t quite choose a power amp.

You don’t have to read this -->> "How do you pick a right amp for yourself? Do you consider Damping Factor? Do you match Tube DAC + Tube Amp? or Do you match Solid State + Tube Amp? for what reason? What sound do Soild State DAC/Amp + Tube DAC/Amp combos make? Are there characteristics in Amps? like in DACs? if so, what are they?"

Literally, there are just too many questions I want to ask. But, for now, I just want to listen to what you want to say, whatever is in your mind or any advise you would like to give as more experienced audiophiles when you pick a power amp.

I seek for the right components, ideal setups and match because I learned something from my very first set of audio gears I bought for this thanksgiving that I unfortunately returned a few days ago. The sound quality from Sonos Amp was hard to endure! The SVS Ultra bookshelf was great, but not quite so when it dealt with high notes.

So, I did my research this time and found my next set of audio gears.

1. Monitor Audio Gold 100 5G speaker
2. MHDT Lab Orchid DAC
3. MiniDSP SHD Ultra streamer

What I focused on during the research was to pick gears that can produce wide sound stage, great 3d imaging, airy voices, and great details with smooth yet realistic sounds.

But, I don’t have a clue how to choose a right power amp.

I can just pick a internet recommended under $ 1K power amp and be done with it. Maybe I can still be okay. But, I don’t want to just buy something without knowing anything to go through a return process again. I’d rather at least learn some basics before buying a music component, even if I end up returning something. Because I know now that I can be pretty picky on stereo sounds.

So...

Please comment anything you want to add.

Recommend me some used/new power amps + deals (under 1K ish), if you have anything in mind.

Direct me to the right direction.

Thanks.

K





yggy1
safeharbor
3 posts
 
I highly recommend the Adcom GFA-555 or Nakamichi PA-7 power amps.  Both have plenty of power and sound great!  A good Adcom can easily be found online used for around $500, and the Nak will cost you about twice that.  Pair it up with an Adcom preamp (I use a GTP-500, which includes a tuner), and you have all you need to start!  Might want to make sure your preamp has an input for Phono, just in case you get the Vinyl Bug!  ;)
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,332 posts
 
McCormack Audio. A used one is very reasonable and it can be transformed into a reference component, by McCormack Audio.
blumartini's avatar
blumartini
224 posts
 
Adcom is a good choice however B&K ST-140 has the biggest bang for the buck in audio recommended by audiophiles that own pieces in the $5k and above mark.

Look up the reviews.

Cheers!
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,332 posts
 
Don’t expect a new amp to take the place of good room acoustics.
brockwired's avatar
brockwired
53 posts
 
I do own a Schiit modi3 and a Saga preamp. I am very happy with them. I am more of a tube guy and own a couple of set amps. I also own a pair of Decware Imperials. I am working on building a pair of Decware zkit 1 amplifiers. My set amps put out around 3 watts so they would not work for you.

I will make a power amp suggestion. I am thinking about getting a Crown XLS drivecore2 for my Imperials. The 1002 model ($339 list) puts out 550w@2ohms ,350w@4ohms and 215w@8ohms. It has a 3 year warranty. It is also a very versatile amp. It has a built in electronic crossover with high and low pass. Internal electronic y adapter for bi amping that would reduce interconnects/connections. It also features 1/4in jack, rca and xlr inputs. For speakers it has speakon and binding posts.

Crown’s parent company is Harman Professional and Crown has had a very strong reputation in professional audio for many years. Plus their amps are considered to be one of the best kept secrets in home theater. Read some reviews. I have seen some people compare them to audiophile amps costing 10 times the price or more. Out of all the models in the XLS line the 2002 and the 2502 have a lower noise floor.

I have heard quite a few of Crown’s products. Both in live venue and in a studio. I have a few friends who are musicians. You would need a preamp to go with it. This would make a great starter amp and could be repurposed later on as your needs change.
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