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For efficient speakers, how much difference does an amp really make?

I have ascend sierra RAAL tower speakers with 90-93db efficiency and 300W continuous power handling. I’m powering them with dual outlaw M2200 monoblock class AB/G amps rated at 200W into 8 ohms. It sounds good...but i can’t help but wondering if a different amp would provide greater clarity and low-end grunt.

I have been curious about an older adcom amp like the GFA-555 II or perhaps a parasound halo amp like the A23. 

To those who have had multiple amps in your setup, did you find significant sonic differences between amps, or is a subtle thing? I don’t want to start collecting amps, but I don’t want to deny myself the chance to improve my system further. Thoughts?
dtrandall
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
@millercarbon   

Sorry, but its been a long day of silly questions- and even worse replies.

This is supposed to be a forum to pose question and exchange ideas about audio.  Why do you prefer to turn it into a platform for you to critique both the questions and responses from forum members? Obviously playing this role gives you some sense of self validation but it really isn't in a positive spirit.  You're like trying to be some martyr who suffers fools all day, and despite the agony you endure listening to the substandard drivel, you still offer nuggets of wisdom to the undeserving masses.  You just give and give don't you?...(gag)
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,223 posts
 
Wow, some of you guys are wound up tighter than Dick's hat band. There is nothing wrong with a little comic relief in the form of sarcasm from time to time. If we all stuck to the script, toed the line, behaved "normally", how dull would this place be?

To quote Sgt. Hulka, "Lighten up, Francis"..........

Oz



mrdecibel
3,065 posts
 
@three_easy_payments....+1
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 
amps make a huge difference.  don't obsess about power ratings.  I use 45w to drive speakers with an SPL of 84dB at trade shows (in 13 x 20 rooms) and at the end of the day my ears ring.  

Quality over quantity assuming you meet the minimum needs for the listening environment you are in. 
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
Going lower power and/or tube amp is no assurance of superior sound quality. It is often an assurance of lesser macrodynamics and headroom, as arctikdeth pointed out.  

I have reviewed lower powered tube/SS amps, but for my personal systems I prefer more robust tube/SS amps, regardless of the efficiency of the speakers.   :) 



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