2. amps-preamps
  3. 173438-161963

When to Amp it Up?

Just wondering what events led others on the forum to upgrade amps?

What was lacking in your set up, or did something new come out to peak your interest? Any and all stories are welcomed, and recommendation always!

My situation is I love my system, but I feel my amplification might be my weakest link. However I’m struggling to find what exactly I’d be looking for in upgrading? I feel my Bi-amped set up really sounds good, but am looking at more up market amps (Parasound JC5 vs McIntosh MC830 mono blocks). Is more power always better, and should your amp ever cost more then your speakers?

Current Amplification

Dual Cambridge Audio Azur 851w set to Bi-amped dual mono (200w/8o, 350w/4o)

Speakers

JBL L-100 Classic 75th Anniversary (4o)

ja_kub_sz
ja_kub_sz's avatar
ja_kub_sz OP
275 posts
 

@tomic601 I have them on 17" custom stands and yeah the new room is most likely gonna be the deciding factor. 100% I'm going to listen to the JC5 MC830's and might even try a 3rd amp (something anything 4-7k) to just add to the comparisons.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,185 posts
 

great news on stands ;-) a great Hybrid amp to consider would be an Aesthetix Atlas Stereo. Tube front end with mulekicker SS outputs from the great genius of Jim White.

Best to you. 

Jim

bubba12's avatar
bubba12
469 posts
 

It seems the amps you own are comparable to the speakers you own. I'm npt sure the biamping thing is necessary. I think with the amount of money you have invested you might be better off with a great integrated with less cables and fuss. Just an opinion.

ja_kub_sz's avatar
ja_kub_sz OP
275 posts
 

@bubba12 ​​I already have a good integrated amp with the Technics SU-R1000. However it's prime use is for my vinyl with its balanced MC phono stage and DSP. I have my Teac TN-5BB and it's balanced outs running to it. It's clarity and neutrality are impeccable, but again I have a great DAC with the Musetec MH-DA005. So just looking for better amplification.

Appreciate it though.

bubba12's avatar
bubba12
469 posts
 

Fair enough. Have you have used the Technics as the amp also without the Cambridge? It just seems like you have alot going on. What is wrong with the integrated alone?

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