2. amps-preamps
  3. 1178303197

bad match?- Totem Model1's and NEW 20.1

I have Totem Model 1"s (biwire, not signature), an NEW 20.1 (single ended class A solid state). Rega Planet, Audio Research SP9. I find the system anaemic, not much low end and especially not at low volumes. I know they are both reasonably good budget pieces of equipment in their own right but the amp I believe is way under powered for the Totems. I think my options include getting some horns like those from the horn shoppe as I expect they may sing with the NEW, or I could get a Storm sub or get a new amp, with I presume at least 100w. What are your thoughts?
christopher_h
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
a larger amp will help your entire system.
sns
3,193 posts
 
I used to run a NEW DCA 66 and ARC SP9 running Alon II's (aprox. 87db). While it is difficult to make a direct comparison, I also had anemic bass while running the SP9 in that setup (I still have the SP9, anemic bass in every system I've tried it in), I would first go for a preamp change. You are probably underpowered with that amp as well, even the DCA 66 was no powerhouse in the bass department.
blkadr
739 posts
 
You might want to try a different preamp before x-ing out your power amp. My experience with Totem Ones and power amps was not as cut and dry as I expected. Budget integrated about 50wpc sounded lifeless and shut in. With seperates I tried a few amps. I found that generally speaking more power = better sound, but... The current owner of my Totems uses a 25wpc Class A power amp resulting in great sound quality and surprisingly good output capabilities. This is the classic Bedini 25x25, an amp with a little bit of a cult following I believe. Not sure how your amp "couples" with the Totems, but the class A Bedini surely out did some other amps with much higher power specs. Hope you find a good match for the Totems, they are worth the effort!
christopher_h OP
5 posts
 
Thanks everyone for you responses. Does anyone have an opinion on getting rid of the Totems and replacing with high efficiency (96db)horns (like the horn shoppe horns)and keeping the NEW A20.1 (and eventually replacing the preamp). Note, I am suprised that people think that one problem could be the SP9. Is that that weak?

Thanks again.

Chris
rogercr
15 posts
 
Hello Chris. I had an Audio Research LS2B preamp at one stage with the Pass Labs Aleph 3 amp and Totem Model 1s.
The weak link was the preamp and had the same character that you described. I've found that the Sonic Frontiers SFL series of preamps along with CJs or Pass Labs work extremely well with the Aleph 3 as might be the case with the NEW 20.1. The Totems love power but I've also had success with the Decware 5watt monoblocks in a small room(11'x15') mind you not at ear splitting levels as I don't think you have to enjoy music this way all the time.
I've recently bought a pair of Model 1s again to keep this time for good and will try them out with my Naim gear. I'll keep you posted on that if you'd like.
You can also try the Jadis Orchestra integrated or Conrad Johnson CAV 50 integrated as well which apparently are good synergies with the Totem Model 1s.
Good luck and I hope this helps!
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