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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
fatdaddy2
387 posts
 

I say BS on the "must use tubes" nonsense.  Using an Edge G8 (70 wpc SS class AB) with mine after experimenting with a Moth S45 running 2A3's, which just didn't have enough guts in the low end.  Although some say Decware is satisfactory for the Forte's, I'd be cautious if I were you.

rumblestrip's avatar
rumblestrip
48 posts
 

I'm surprised no one has suggested the Rogue Cronus Maxum III integrated tube amp.  It's $3K (new) and has more than enough power to drive the Klipsch Heresy's even in your (fairly large) room.  I have no personal experience with this amp but my closest audio friend, whose ears I trust implicitly, loves his.  

I've heard that Rogue with Magnepan 20.7's and it sounded VERY nice.
Sean from Zero Fidelity has said multiple times that his Cornwall's with the Luxman is a system he could be happy with for a long time.

coachpoconnor's avatar
coachpoconnor
380 posts
 

I use to own the KA-5500, I’ll bet the 9100 would sound good with your new stuff, but I vote for a First Watt or tubes. Stay in the Decware line or 300b.

gochurchgo
921 posts
 

The Klipsch don't need power, but they love power. My neighbors aren't happy about this obviously. I played my Heresy IV's with a Decware (2.3wpc) and it sounded great. My Odyssey gives it grunt and propulsion.

gochurchgo
921 posts
 

@russ69 

Nothing wrong with this. Although 6 db might be enough but as long as you can get the volume you need/want it's fine. 

 

My line stage cooks tubes so tubes issues come fast. I do have a set of 6db I want to throw in but I never get around to it. I have been exploring other ways to lower the output but have found that conclusively works.

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