Primaluna EVO 400 Amps/Preamp lacking bass impact

The amp damping factor could be a significant source of this lack of bass definition.

From a Hi-Fi World review of the EVO 400:

"Output impedance measured 
2.3Ω, giving a damping factor of 3.4 in 
Ultralinear mode. Surprisingly, figures 
were a tad better in Triode mode at 2Ω
and 3.8. Both are ‘poorer’ figures than 
that of transistor amplifiers, but really this 
is dependent upon loudspeaker acoustic 
damping. "

This low damping factor would result in less control of the speakers at low frequencies compared to an amp with a higher damping factor. The NAD M23, for example, has a damping factor >800.

I have no skin in the game to respond to this ask. I would however like to give major props to @jimmy2615 for offering such a thoughtful reply. There are really some wonderful folks helping each other out. I’ve always been interested in the Primaluna gear and love the way it sounds in my friends listening room and that’s the reason I dropped into this thread. I have Focal’s in my main room and really enjoy them. I hope the OP can sort out what he’s looking for. Good luck and cheers.

Thank you Rick.  I appreciate most when people can offer comparisons of different gear they’ve tried, otherwise you have to try it for yourself or you’ll never know.  That’s one thing (of many) that’s sad about the demise of the B&M stores …. A good dealer should be able to tell you what works with what.  Good reviewers also - for example, I appreciate when someone like Herb from Stereophile reviews an amplifier.  He’ll report on how it sounds with each speaker he has.

Thank you @jimmy2615 

Since I posted, we tightened up the stands that were a bit loose and moved the speakers back to 30" from the wall and bass is better. 

the only issue with using the RCA preamp out to the SUB, is the LFE is shared, so would have to unplug and change cables for movies. unless I am missing something. 

they sound better and most likely will not bother with the sub for music listening.. 

the only issue with using the RCA preamp out to the SUB, is the LFE is shared, so would have to unplug and change cables for movies. unless I am missing something.

One solution is install a line level A/B switcher

Or an Audio Activated Line-Level Automatic switcher.