Best amplifier for low to moderate listening levels
My system consists of Martin Logan 11A's, Conrad Johnson Classic 62 (60 watt per channel), Rogue Preamp, Lumin U2 mini streamer, and a Chord Qutest DAC. I realize that a high sensitivity speaker in the mid 90's for example would allow the use of a lower powered amplifier. I just purchased the Martin Logans 11A's one year ago and am not looking to get rid of them so quickly, not to mention the financial loss. Is anybody from the school that more power will bring a speaker to life even at low to moderate listening levels. I typically listen at 65dbs with 70DB peaks. I have listened at low levels and do not get the dynamics until the volume is turned too high for my ears. Any amps recommended that will mate well with the Martin Logans and maximize their sound. I know the speaker is a tough load to drive as the impedance drops below 2 ohms. I was thinking a high current amplifier (where power doubles when you drop from 8 ohms to 4 ohms. This only applies to solid state. My budget would be up to $10,000.00, but I would have to have a home audition before to avoid another mistake. Would a better DAC help in this regard? In short, I am trying to get this right, but its almost like I am operating in a vacuum. Difficult to obtain unbiased advice. Thank you.
The Pass Labs XA30.8 and other Class A amplifiers are distinctly a low volume sound quality leader- most likely because of the Class A topology. Spectacular. The Parasound JC5 is also very good for low volume listening, Also depends on the quality and dynamics of your preamp. Which Rogue do you have? |
A little off track , but I’d like to make a suggestion. I have an RP-1 and it’s Rogues entry level pre. I tube rolled and settled on Tekefunken G73R 12AU7’s. I went with a nice aftermarket power cord and added isolation footers. I’ve also noticed that it takes 4-6 hours to sound its best. I have a tendency to leave it on 24-48 hours at a time. I’ve also inserted a Schiit Loki with good results. FWIW Ive tried 5 different brands of NOS 12AU7’s and THEY ALL bested the JJ’s. Look for a clean pair of standard Tekefunken smooth plates from a reputable dealer. If you’d like specific info PM me. This is a side note that would lend an improvement regardless of where you go with amp/speaker choice. Regards, Mike B. |
I know it’s considered all things evil to an audiophile, but have you considered: https://www.schiit.com/products/lokius OR https://www.schiit.com/products/loki-max I bit the bullet and purchased the Lokius,could not be more pleased. $300 vs $10,000 for an amp that may not get me what I’m listening for Give it a shot.. $300 If you look at my profile system, you'll see it right on top of my streamer Sometimes more power is not enough. My rebuilt upgraded TNT200'S are pumping out close to 900watts each. |
