Int-250 that I recommended is 250w/ch into 8ohms. You must have checked out the specs on Int-25 by mistake.
The Proverbial "best amp" for Focal Sopra No. 1
Salutations,
I recently acquired the Focal Sopra No.1. These are without a doubt the last bookshelves I will ever own.
I'm seeking suggestions for my perfect match for those amazing speakers. I added additional constraint/hints for selecting the amp at the end.
My current setup is McIntosh C712 with McIntosh MC7100 (2 x 100w @8Ohm). It is a bit old, but it's the best combo I ever had. With the Focals, it is an amazing listening experience every time! The only problem is, they are not mine. It's a lend, and the (sad) day will come where I'll have to give them back. So what do I get to replace this combo?
I like the sound of the McIntosh, so I'm looking obviously for the MA5300, the MA7200 and, MAC7200. Is it ok to make the following assumption: The amp/speaker synergy between the Focals and all of those McIntosh integrated will be similar to what I have today.
What else should I put on my shortlist to try before I buy? I have a really good feeling about the Hegel H190, but never heard it. Has anyone had the chance to hear this amp and the Focals?
What about Naim? Are they a good fit for those? Any other suggestions?
I will greet your suggestions with an open mind.
Thanks,
-Papyneau
P.S. More details to improve suggestions :
- Room size is 9' x 11', but not really rectangular. It is what it is for now. But not forever.
- Music is varied, but mainly strong female voices, piano, violon, acoustic blue and jazz. Very little of RbB, Hard Rock.
- Budget is 4k-7k CAD, negotiable.
- I only use one source: A Bluesound Node streaming Spotify andTidal.
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- 12 posts total
Thanks @audphile1, I see it now. Sooo good reviews ans soooo expensive! I will keep a watch on it! |
Naim and Focal are said to be natural partners but some say the merge is purely on business and profits. Having said that, there are a handful of owners who use Naim on Sopra No. 1 and 2 speakers. Check out the Naim forum and you would notice.
In the end, it’s listening preferences that matter. If you like McIntosh, perhaps investigate the line. Pass Labs Int250 is a beast, might be one of the best if not the best to drive your Sopras.
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I really like McIntosh and focal. It is a safe match with longterm enjoyment. There are many other but stick with what you like, don’t let people send you down the rabbit hole. Are there better amps? Sure, but long term I have settled into Mac and I am happy with it on a number of different speakers. It is always good but never amazing. I really like the high power Mac amps. Don’t over look power specifically capacitance or what mac call dynamic headroom. It makes a difference I think. On the MC462 I use they spec 3db of dynamic headroom and to me this means it can double the power almost instantly for short burst. |
- 12 posts total