2. amps-preamps
  3. 161775-153237

Amplifier suggestions please

Hi - I'm reworking a 2 channel system, had some very basic components and now trying to step up a bit.  DAC is currently a Schiit Yggy, I'm on the waiting list for a Freya+ which means I'll be running balanced connections.  Speakers are Philharmonic Audio 3's.  I was using a pair of Emotiva XPA-1L monoblocks (differential/balanced) but want to upgrade.  I could stay in the Schiit catalog and go with a pair of Vidar's but although there are no real bad reviews I feel like they don't quite get raved about like the Yggy does (and the Freya+ to some extent).  I'd like to stay around $2K, definitely under $3K and I prefer new (I've had my fill with trying used).  I know its asking a lot to find a pair of balanced monoblocks in this range so I'm not opposed to a stereo amp (XLR inputs).  I could also be talked into canceling my Freya+ order and switching to a preamp from the amp builder if there is better synergy in that pairing.  I've looked an Van Alstine and Odyssey, what else should I be looking at?

Thanks!
jumper75
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Have you looked at class D? Big bang for the buck.. Compared to Emotiva, VTV, Nord, few more, I have Wyred4sound  (ICE) not my cup of tea. The Nords I really like with Sparco Op Amps... That little valve front end Freya + with the Nords.. oh yea... I use One Ups, NC500s
Serious little power house...BLACK background... great mids and no blistering highs.. I use small panars... Perfect.. or bass duty...really well behaved, run cool as could be,,

Regards
jumper75's avatar
jumper75 OP
6 posts
 
I'm not very familiar with class D from personal listening experience so it would be a bit of a gamble as to how I like it but I'll look over Nord's offerings.  class D is such a can of worms around here ;-)
soix
10,271 posts
 
What would you want to improve over your Emorivas, and what sound characteristics in general are most important to you?
jumper75's avatar
jumper75 OP
6 posts
 
I'm bad with using all the buzz words correctly and coming from an entry level such as Emotiva I would hope my upgrade would be an improvement in all areas.  I do know I want good frequency response top to bottom as my Phil 3's are full range, I feel like I'm missing some punch in low end from the XPA-1L's and the highs tend to be a bit rolled off as well.  Lots of other variables go into that was well so I fully acknowledge factors such as the room, treatments, etc.  
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