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Advice for Amp to Drive Klipsch Forte IVs

I just got back into hifi after being away for many many years. My first system, when I was 18-19 was a Kenwood KA-9100 amp, KT-615 tuner, Denon TT, Klipsch Heresy speakers and Teac reel to reel. Loved that setup in a small room. That was 1979-80. I’m now almost 60...LOL...and I’ve got time and money.

Just earlier this year I bought some KLIPSCH Forte IVs, a Denafrips Pontus II DAC, CXN V2 and a small Reisong tube amp while I got on the list for a set of Decware amps. I decided I couldn’t wait and have decided to go SS.  

 I listen to down tempo, Trip-Hop, Jazz and a little of this and that in a fairly small space. ...maybe 15x30.

I’m considering the Pass Labs INT-25 or maybe a Luxman L-550ax ii.

 I do not have the opportunity to demo either of these but have read wonderful reviews and have watched some nice videos about each. 

 I wanted to get some thoughts on this set up. A brand new Luxman goes for about the same price as a demo INT-25.

daodao
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,360 posts
 

Topping PA5 will sound better than anything listed above.

I have a little class D amp on my Heresys. 65 wpc, I think. It plays but no balls. Not the same as the Rogue with 250 wpc and a good power supply. Plus, the tube front end that puts it in another level. 

sladetroityer
4 posts
 

I have the Forte IV’s as well and I’ve tried several amps. The best results were yielded from a McIntosh MAC7200. The 275 watts per channel offer supreme sounds stage, and really bring out the low end of the driver. 
 

highly recommended 

ricmech23
102 posts
 

I’m running Peachtrees Gan400 on my Cornwall, sounds amazing. I hope someday to try a tube amplifier. 

charles7
102 posts
 

The Forte IV are specified at 99 dB sensitivity. A First Watt F8 would likely drive them well - it has no problem with my Focal Aria 906's spec'd at 89.5 dB. Plus a SS or tube preamp.

emrofsemanon's avatar
emrofsemanon
292 posts
 

being that it is a Klipsch, i'd go for something mellow like a rega brio. 50 wpc should be plenty for those speakers.

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