2. amps-preamps
  3. 1234446850

Power Amps with High Current or High Damping

A fellow Audiogoner and I have the same monitors. He's run into the same problem that I did when trying to fill a 14' x 35' room.

I found out, completely by accident, that when I replaced my Herron preamp and monoblocks (150 wpc) with a Karan integrated (170 wpc), the Karan solved the problem.

Though the wattage was similiar, the high current and/or damping factor of the Karan took a hold of the speakers and made them play whatever it was sending. The monitors are completely up to the task and never broke up.

Jim is trying to keep his cost for an amp that will control his monitors like this to around $3,000.00, give or take. He asked me about a McCormack DNA 225, but I don't know anything about McCormack amps.

I would like everyone's thoughts about the McCormack DNA 225 and suggestions for other amps that would fit the bill.

Thanks,
Chuck
krell_man
krell_man OP
827 posts
 
Harmonic Precision Caravelles from Star Sound Technologies. You can see them if you look at my system photos.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
For a few more bucks, I would look at a used DNA-500 over the DNA-250. In a whole different league, IMO. Its a pretty special amp and has been very well-reviewed. I am keeping mine for a future system. Its that good.
dev's avatar
dev
832 posts
 
Krell_man, Hi Chuck the DNA-500 over the 250 would be the way to go for your friend.

I read some where that you changed from your Karan Integrated to a Burmester 036 Power Amp.

What differences did you find between the two.

You being a Karan owner, what are your over all thoughts regarding this product line as a whole. I'm looking at the 1200 mono blocks but the Burmester 911 MK3's and 909's are on my radar also which I would get two and run in monoblock config., speakers are MBL 101E's.
krell_man OP
827 posts
 
Dev, hey David, concerning the Karan versus the Burmester. The Karan KA I-180 is a hair darker than the Burmester 036.

That said though, Gary, the importer told me that the I-180 and S-180 sound a bit darker than any of the bigger power amps. I don't want to sound like I'm taking anything away from Karan, so I'd try to audition one in your system before taking my word for it. I haven't heard any of the Karans other than my KA I-180, but it was the best I'd ever had until I heard the Burmester.

I have heard the Burmester 036 and the 956 Mk 2, they have the same sound, just different power. I just happen to be one who's captivated by the Burmester sound. I'd definitely talk to Tonypdb1 since he's selling his 911 Mk 3's and running them with the MBL speakers.

Chuck
juancgenao
64 posts
 
Try Belles, 350A ref, 250 watts, and 2000 dampening factor, a real beast, very detail, great midrange and very powerful bass, one of the best amps all around:
More to discover