2. amps-preamps
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mo' better bass: any substitute for watts?

Generally speaking, and all things being equal, will higher wattage amps generally produce more, better defined bass than lower wattage amps at a given volume level? I don't seem to hear much bass until I turn my amp up to a level that doesn't suit my listening habits. Wondering if this could be improved by upgrading my old NAD 25(or is it 35?)wpc Powerdrive amp with a newer, modest amp in the 100 wpc range or so. I'm thinking about driving a power amp directly off of an Oppo 980H. Speakers are Rega R3's which can produce bass in my small room when I crank the volume and/or bass tone control. Thanks!
clbone
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,894 posts
 
Most likely you will get some improvement in the bass at lower levels. But another solution is to add a powered sub and keep your existing amp if you like it.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
no bass or treble controls on your amp?
clbone OP
41 posts
 
Jaybo, my amp is an old NAD integrated. It has bass and treble controls. The bass doesn't really sound present without turning up the bass knob and / or the volume.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,894 posts
 
how low do they go in the bass? what's the frequency range? is it uniform with all CDs that the volume needs to be cranked up to get bass?
What is your budget for the new amp?
kotta's avatar
kotta
649 posts
 
When I replaced my Bryston 3B w/ a newer 4B ST the bass sounded much fuller. So yes in this instance the increase in watts and a newer more refuned design resulted in a warmer more refined sound w/greater bass. Presently I'm using a Rega Brio 3 which is rated for 49w per ch. It has a wonderful warm sound w/great bass. I'd audition one. If your lacking bass after this amp, you my need to add a sub or buy different spks. Yes, there is a substitute for great bass w/less watts w/the Brio 3.
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