Amplifier suggestions to drive a pair of NHT 3.3


Hello Audiogoners.

I recently aquired a pair of used NHT 3.3 and I'm pretty happy about it. I intend to build my 2 channels system around them. So, the rest of my gear will probably be all upgraded at one point or another.

For the moment (this fall-winter)I want to upgrade the power amp. I got a Rotel RB-956AX, I bi-amp, bi-cable with 50w/c. No need to tell me how much I miss with this amp, it's pretty obvious to me...

So, I want decent power (200-300w/c) in a 2 channels unit (monoblocks while tempting will be avoided for the moment). I want deep thight bass, warm mids and sweet highs (don't we all).

I'm considering:

Mark Levinson 23.5
McIntosh MC300-MC352
Pass Labs X250-X350
Krell KSA200S-FPB200
Classe CA300
Bryston 4B-SST

So in the range of $2000 to $3000 used.

Any comments on these amps (or others) with the NHT 3.3 mostly appreciated.
jolan
I just can't believe anybody telling they need more power than the Aragon.
I think if you're driving an old pair of 3.3's you migt want to replace the crossover network, talk to NHT about it, , , , more power.
The Aragon puts out 300 real watts at 6 ohm (NHT 3.3 are 7 ohm load) and they trally feel a lot more powerful than the 400 WPC compared to Sunfire and other ampl opn that class.
If you really want more power buy the Threshold Audio Version Monoblock or the S-5000e released a couple of year ago retails for $2,600 or so.
Maybe you can find a used one around.
I have been driving my 3.3's with am Aragon 4004 MK0II with much success, also using noe the Threshold S-5000e, more livelier than the Aragon, more air on the top end which the 3.3's do wonderfully,
Sunfire cinema grand biamping lows and top (2 channels per speaker) did not quite do it, didn't feel like the Aragon or the Threshold.
You might want to try a Krell KSA 250 or somethind like that, not more power just different flavor.
By all means replace the crossover network if you have an older pair 1993 to 1997 or so.

Hope this helps a little

God Bless!

Gonzalo
Thank you all for your imputs.

Well, because of some changes in my life I had to reduce the budget available for my amp (for the moment).

I opted for less power but a lot of music and finesse (and a decent bass!).

I bought a used KRELL KSA-50S .

I Gotta say that I'm amazed each time I listen to some music! :)

Jolan.
Gonzalo,

When you suggest to replace the crossover network, do you mean to replace all the caps ? If so, did you replace them by film caps or electrolitycs ?

Thanks
I use a B&K ST-202+ (300watts at 4 ohms) FET output transistors provide a warm tube-like sound. When I was a kid I heard Ginger Baker play several drum solos in a small club. When I play his Cream rendition of his Toad solo I am still floored by it on the 3.3's. They are great all-rounders but the bass is magnificent. As for the rough highs I replaced the tweeters with superior Seas Excel t25cf001's and they made the top end softer and more life-like to my ears. Electronically they are pretty close to a drop in so I didn't change the XO but a little Dremel tool work was needed and the flange overlaps a little but still looks good. I like them a lot better now.
Just bought a Crown xls2500 because of good net reports on it and others in various blogs on their drivecore series. I used it to replace an excellent B&K 202+.

Cost new under $600 from local Guitar Center with a free return policy. Less on Ebay.

Result fantastic sound. Can hardly believe it isn't a $12000 Class A amplifier. No white noise even with my ears next to the tweeters and I can't hear the fan even when it comes on and I'm next to it.

I have never before heard such well controlled bass and sweet highs coming in combination from a solid state amplifier into none set speakers. The sound is neutral and flat with no coloration. I loved my B&K's but I have to believe my ears more than my prejudice against pro-audio gear. Check them out, they drive over 400wrms per channel into 8 ohms and almost twice that into 4 or 2