Focal Maestro Utopia , need advice for AMP/PRE

Pelo..., congratulations on your new Focals. Although I don't know much about the Focal line, you may want to reach out to Albert Porter. His system is always attracting comments in Virtual Systems. Albert's rig includes Focal Maestro Utopias.

Btw, the Focal 1038 - Be II are on my short list of speakers that I'm eyeing -- or better, "earing"??. Can you share any thoughts about the 1038s? Are they high current power hogs? My amp is an ARC Ref 150 tube amp which is rated at 150 wpc and has relatively low output impedance. Any thoughts about compatibility?

I've had the opportunity to hear most of the Focal Utopia speakers at one time or another, but I'm not 100% sure if I've heard the model you have. I know I have heard the Diablo, Stella, Grande, and one of the ones in the middle of the range.

My experience is fairly limited, but I've never left the store impressed when Aesthetix amplification was being used. Every time that I'm blown away it has always been Krell amplification being used.

What's crazy, I was blown away the last time I stopped at the store and the setup was a pair of Focal 807v speakers with the Krell S-300i and I came home more "unhappy" with my system that day that I had on previous trips with the Stella and Grande speakers hooked up to Asthetix gear.

My point is that you should hear any Asthetix gear (really any gear) before making the investment. The people at the store are obviously happy with the combination, but it's never been my cup of tea.

Focal Maestro Utopia - wow, that's an incredible upgrade. I hope you can get the most out of those speakers in your room. I'm guessing you will have to move things around a bit. Stick with your current electronics.

Regards,

Bifwynne

"on paper" the 1038 are easy to drive
but in order to get full bass control and wide soundstage you need power.
the Electra 1038 it's amazing speakers , if you want to buy my 10 month old pair they are for sale now :)

I would listen to the speakers prior to any amp replacement and then if you feel it is necessary you may want to look at the Pass X600.5's or move to the XA series say the 160 or 200 .5's or if you really want to drop some coin try the XS series.

Chuck