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Budget amp for NHT 2.5i - suggestions?

Hi guys, I just picked up a pair of NHT 2.5i towers, but I don't have an amplifier for them yet. Just wondering if you had any suggestions, especially if any of you are currently running these speakers or have had them in the past.

Apparently these speakers tend to be on the bright side, and they like lots of power to perform optimally. Some seem to use them with tube amps to decrease the brightness, but others seem happy with solid-state as well.

I got a good deal on these and am on a pretty tight budget, so I would probably buy a used amp, but I'm open to anything. Any suggestions or info would be great. Also, I will probably use my computer for music so I would have to buy a DAC as well (suggestions? maybe good amp/dac pairs?) Thanks!
105sixteen
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Don't you need the high current clone or would any First Watt clone work? I know they are not big wattage amps.

The OP request for low cost may preclude this but used Odyssey SS amps for the bass are fairly inexpensive. If you can get a used Cary made AES AE -3 preamp, especially the first models they are truly a bargain but the heavily upgraded later editions run up the cost. Never the less great sound.
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105sixteen OP
17 posts
 
Thanks a lot for the helpful responses, guys. So it looks like the best option would be a USB DAC and a power amp. The Peachtree Decco looks very nice, would this pair well with a B&K amp? Does anybody have any other suggestions for good USB DACs (or other power amps also)? Thanks again!
105sixteen OP
17 posts
 
Also, both the Peachtree Decco and B&K are supposed to be pretty warm. I know that warmer components would be better for these speakers, but this would not be "overly warm" would it? I do want the NHTs to still sound as detailed and clean as possible.
ig316b
103 posts
 
If you can swing the cash, try a McCormack DNA-0.5. I have one hooked to my NHT's 2.5's and they sound awesome. This amps mates perfectly with the NHT's.
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