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What to feed my Paradigm Studio speakers?

I'm an aspiring Audiophile, just graduated college and started a "real" job (Elec. Engineer).

In college I bought a Denon 2805 with Paradigm Monitor speakers. I now have bought a house and replaced the Monitors with Studios which now feel "held back" by my Denon 2805. I know I could just stick with the two companies I know and just get a bigger/better Denon receiver but I'm finding my tastes going toward having really good 2ch music.

What are your suggestions on a good 2 ch amp solution for music? I don't have loads of money as I also just got married. Something tried and true, and a relative bang-for-buck champ. I don't even care if it's a 20 year old amp. Whatever will help me really enter a new world of obsession.

BTW, how did you all learn so much about speakers and names I've never even heard of? How do I follow this audiophile community when it almost seems "underground". I don't know of anywhere here in Phoenix, AZ that I can go to see/hear this stuff first hand. Do you really just have to have a audiophile friend that can show off their speakers and knowledge? I just get the feeling like Denon, Paradigm and B&W just scream "I wish I was an audiophile". Any truth to this?
davethomson
eldarado
381 posts
 
I can't believe there are no hi end shops in Phoenix. I am sure some will chime in. You might consider an integrated amp with a HT pass thru if you have a HT system you want to still use. For just a two channel amp you might look at something from Anthem since they are Paradigm's sister company.

What is your budget for the amp?
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Hi Dave, I've got Studio 60's and center channel as well as the ADP surrounds in my HT system with Rotel amplification. Which model do you have? It does make a difference. Most Paradigms I've heard are on the bright side, so quality power is usually called for to smooth them out. Classe is another great match as they tend to be smooth, transparent and full of current.

BTW, from one EE to another don't tell your fellow EE's that your into audio and forget most everything they told you about wire being just wire. Learn to trust your ears.

Best,

Dan
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
Welcome to the club!! If you want to learn more about the underground and bang for the buck gear. One word..well maybe two AudioCircle. I've discovered more goodies in 1 year there than several on Audiogon. Which seems geared more to big name stuff. Some of the best sounds to be had..are from those small companies with the designer working his butt off in the basement.:-)

Good listening!!
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