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Amp for Sonus Faber Cremona - old model

I have the upgrade bug, and am considering replacing my Simaudio i7 integrated amp. My system consists of i7 and Supernova by Simaudio, Cremona speakers (not M) and an SVS PB12 sub.

I have no real complaints other than the speakers can sound a bit forward at times, and maybe some distortion at high volumes ;). I want to try separates, and I plan on taking my time and auditioning several systems. This may involve bringing my speakers in to a shop - although some of the shops in my area will allow me to bring gear home for a trial.

I've already upgraded twice from lower power amps, and find that the Cremonas need a lot of good quality power.

I'm thinking of the P/W7 from Sim as a start. What would you suggest? I've never tried tubes but would like to do so.
fundsgon
dtc's avatar
dtc
1,047 posts
 
I use a Classe CP-65 pre and a Levinson 432 amp (400 watts at 8 ohm) with my Cremona. I have tried big Classe amps with the Cp-65 pre and find the sound a little harsh. Likewise, a Levinson 32 or 326 pre is too laid back with the 432 amp. So, a neutral to slightly forward pre (CP-65 and a neurtral to laid back amp (ML 432) works for me. I really like the 432, although you need to be aware that support can be a expensive these days with them, although I have never had any trouble with my amp. I would also suggest you try the various McIntosh if you can. I have heard the Cremona with the large Edge amps and really like them, although I have never had them in my listening room. I would also think about what cables you have. I tried several and ended up with Transaparent Audio Ultra.
rudge
76 posts
 
I have been using Sonus Faber Concertos with Pathos integrated in monoblock mode for two years and its been a great combo. I am going to be upgrading to the Cremoras with the Pathos very shortly. I have heard that combination at my dealers and it sound even better than the Concertos. The Cremora is a better speaker so it should sound better. I would seriously look at Pathos. My two integrateds have worked perfectly for two years.
miner42
709 posts
 
I currenlty have some Cremona Auditor Ms and I use a McIntosh C2300 pre and MC252 amp and am very staified and have stopped my upgraditis. IF I were to upgrade again I would step up to the MC501 monoblocks, but at htis time it does not deem as a necessary step. I also have a REL B2 sub base system to compliment the Auditors.
dtc's avatar
dtc
1,047 posts
 
Rudge - I have Conerto Homes with a Pathos Classic One mark III and love the sound. I would like to hear the Cremona with 2 of these in mono mode. Are you going to the original model or the M?

Miner42 - the general reports are that the M's are much easier to drive than than the original Cremona. That said, I think McIntosh can be a nice fit with the Cremona. But, no blue meters are allowed in my room.
rudge
76 posts
 
I am going to the M and trading in my concertos. I have been very happy with them, but then M's sound even better. It woudl have been necessary for me to have long speaker cable runs so I decided to use the Pathos monoblocked. I have been very happy with them and will continue to monoblock them even though I don't need the power.
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