2. amps-preamps
  3. 1397944726

Using high powered amp at low volumes power

On my extreme near field desk based system (3 feet from the speakers) I've had a recurring problem of not getting enough "Attack" from the system, it seems too laid back. I am using a 400 watt amp, but since I am sitting so close to the speakers, the volume dial is very low. Would this have anything to do with the amount of attack the system seems to produce. I've been through a few amps, all hybrid amps, and they all seem to have similar results.

Specific setup:
Gallo Strada
Peachtree Grand Integrated Amp
nemesis1218
tom6897's avatar
tom6897
1,484 posts
 
The signal is likely being attenuated by the pre-amp because
you are listening at low level and not asking for any demand.

I feel that pre-amp will sound best when you can get the
volume level past 1:00 position prefer 2-4:00. That way you
are passing a fuller signal with less attenuation. I would
replace the amp ASAP. (10-25 watt).

Like pacing a jogger in a Ferrari.
elevick
2,637 posts
 
You could switch preamps. A passive pre with no gain would help. However, you really only need 10-25 watts as Tom said. My nearfield amp is a whopping 12 watts and I doubt I ever use more than 2-3 watts.
prpixel
876 posts
 
In my office, I drive my Reference Strada's with a 50W Wadia 151PowerDAC mini. I tried two different Peachtree integrated's including the original Decco which had an amp designed by Scott Nixon. I didn't care for either; not my cup of tea.

BTW: I use a modified Pinnacle SubCompact6 to fill in the bottom end.
More to discover