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Amp recommendation to drive Thiel 3.6 speakers

Hello everyone,
My first post here. I''l get right to the point.
I am looking for recommendations for suitable power amp monoblocks to drive a pair of Thiel 3.6 that I have had for 20 years, and which I intend to keep. Let me describe my current system.
Speakers: Thiel; 3.6
Power amps: Manley 250 classic monoblocks (tube)
Pre-amp: Audio Research Reference (tube)
Phono-pre: Audio Research Reference 2 SE (tube)
Turntable: VPI/SME, and Linn LP12
Digital: Audio Research CD3

I am looking for recommendations to replace the Manleys. From what I know, the Thiels are a difficult load.
Thanks in advance
pyma6
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Look for something that can deliver 400 to 2000 Watts into 2 Ohms.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
pyma6

Great speaker if driven well. Could do with the tweeters old ferro fluid replacement by now, then the highs will sing again, look for posts I did on how to do this yourself. Here’s one.
https://forum.audiogon.com/posts/1843203?highlight=ferro%2Bfluid

At 86db you need at least >150w-8ohm that can "almost" double that wattage to 4ohm and again 2ohms.
And with this kind of load 3ohm, dipping to 2.3ohms you need an amp that won’t care seeing a continuous 2.5ohm load.
Stereophile’s test results:
"The loudspeaker is under 3 ohms through most of the range, dropping to a minimum of 2.3 ohms at 3.6kHz (the cursor position). The low impedance value explains the CS3.6’s need for the iron-fisted Mark Levinson No.23.5 to provide control in the bass"
https://www.stereophile.com/images/archivesart/Cs36fig1.jpg

Cheers George
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,317 posts
 
The biggest Bryston monoblocks you can afford.
pyma6 OP
7 posts
 
I have been considering a used pair of PS Audio BHK Signature 300 Monos, claiming ratings of 8Ω/300W, 4Ω/600W, 2Ω/1000W. Another consideration is a pass Labs X350.8. Not sure if I should stay with tubes or go with SS in power amps.  Some of the original amps that the speakers was tested early on (like the CJ MF2500) are now vintage and I would rather stay away from something that old. I have read reviews of the Brystons saying that they work but they may be better choices to bring out the full detail and low end of the speakers. Some reviews warn about a harsh tweeter with certain power amps. Not sure.
Comments?

Cheers
Achilles
naimfan
166 posts
 
Krell, Levinson, Bryston, Rowland, Boulder, Ayre.  Preferably from the same era. 
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