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Apogee Scintilla Power

I know this is an old topic but here in 2019 has anyone come across any “new” ideas for driving Scintilla 1 ohm’s?  Just looking for some options. The obvious ones i know/heard of are old Krell, H2O, Lamm (big money) and some pretty wild european amps? I currently have a pair of Sunfire 300’s (with Scintilla mod) that actually sound pretty good and it is amazing what Bob Carver achieved here but looking for the next step. Thanks for any ideas. No need telling me to sell my Scintilla’s.....:). I am all in and really do like the Apogee stuff. Maybe its nostalgic or the journey. Thanks very much. 
westerlm
darkmatter's avatar
darkmatter
24 posts
 

I am most likely to consider the last two amplifiers mentioned above and below, as they are the most recent, and probably superior in audio performance.

Consideration will also be given to them provided they can drive the 1 ohm load of the Apogee Scintilla.

I have specified this parameter, just in case I decide to scratch the itch I have had since the late 1980s (teenage!!) to try out a pair of these loudspeakers in my main system.

Krell FPB750mcx or Krell Evolution 900

Simon


wspohn's avatar
wspohn
608 posts
 
There were very few power amps that could drive into 1 ohm back in the day. They included the Adcom GFA-555, and Classe DR3 and DR3 VHC. the rare Belles 'A', the Krell KSA 80 and 100 and a couple more.  The original speaker review by Cordesman in Stereophile details the requirements.
dawkimi
28 posts
 
Probably a few Threshold models would work.
erik_squires
16,208 posts
 
Among your best choices below Boulder pricing is going to be the Sanders line, especially the Magtechs.


http://www.sanderssoundsystems.com/products/amplifiers/amplifiers-more-information

I genuinely don’t know of any amp that has a more overbuilt output stage than his do, nor anyone besides Krell who attempts full power supply regulation in mega amps besides the Magtechs.

The amps are especially built by ex-Threshold people at Coda but for the incredibly hard to drive demands of ESL's which reach 1/3 of an ohm at the top of the spectrum.

Since these are all available for home audition, I strongly recommend you take him up on his offer.



Best,

Erik
jjljerry2
1 posts
 
If your still considering amps here was my path.  I have the Duetta Signatures and struggled with amps after upgrading from Stages.  I was using my VTL 300 monoblocs with the CJ Premier 10.  Sounded great until I tried the H2O amps from Henry Ho. Use a pair of 250 stereo amps for bi-amp set up. Really made a difference.  Then I tried the Fire preamp and am totally happy with combination.  Tons of power, dynamic range and very detailed, great soundstage etc.  I also mated the Apogees with a pair of Vandersteen Subs and bass is very smooth and quick.  Hope this helps.  The Apogees now need to go to Rich for a total rebuild.  Nothing wrong with them but would love to hear them with new crossovers, wiring, ribbons, caps etc.   They are a special speaker.
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