2. amps-preamps
  3. 1162493739

How Much Power is Enough?

I'm thinking of upgrading my YBA 2 Alpha HC amplifier (70 wpc). I'm currently using PMC OB1 speakers that are fairly inefficient at 87db. I really don't play my system at very loud volumes...and I don't think that I'm stressing my current amplifier...but I'm not sure. I'm looking for an amplifier that will bring about a wide soundstage, tighter bass, and exceptional smooth execution of mirco-detail. Would having more power make much of a difference? ...or should I be looking at a higher quality amplifier and stay with lower power like my current YBA? Some amps I've been considering on the USED market are: Pass XA60 monoblocks (lower power), Pass X150.5, SimAudio Moon W-5....
Would these amplifiers be a good match for my system? Would it be an upgrade from my YBA? Any advice or discussion would be appreciated.

calgarian
calgarian5355
nolitan
865 posts
 
PMCs are known to be good matches with Bryston amps.

I have heard the smallest PMC driven with Bryston, Krells, Classe& Rowlands.

One thing for sure they really eat power for lunch. The 100watters can drive them but when you start pumping them up with 150watts >, wow, they really come alive and the bass starts to really boogie.

I think, the more "quality" watts you can afford, the better. Pass and the Sim you got listed are good choices but look into the Rowlands and Bryston.

good luck
nolitan
865 posts
 
I would also look at one of those modified mccormack dna 1 (170w) from SMC audio. Those would be awesome amps for the PMC and at the same time more affordable than Pass & Sim Audio
unsound
7,363 posts
 
"When I pull this lever, the whole world dies"...Simon Bar Sinister.
jbello
115 posts
 
Go with the old audiophile maxim, If some is good, more is better
redwoodgarden
150 posts
 
Warrenh said "Elvick, you're a little mistaken with your calculations. you mean 3db not 10db. 10db= twice the loudness."

Warrenh, an increase in wattage by a multiple of four will double the loudness which is an increase of 6dB not 10dB. An increase of 3dB is a 50% increase in volume. Therefore, an increase from 30 watts to 60 watts will double the power, but only provide a 50% increase in volume. An increase from 30 watts to 120 watts will quadruple the power, but only double the volume by adding 6dB.

I bet this makes things as clear as mud.
More to discover