2. amps-preamps
  3. 1342381750

Gallo Reference 3.5 Speakers. Now Looking For Amp

Recently purchased a pair of Gallo 3.5's. I have been reading Audiogon for years, but this is my first question. Your assistance and expertise as to which amplifiers should be considered with these speakers would be greatly appreciated.

These speakers were selected to replace my B&W 805s speakers due to the fact that my equipment is going into a small music room (11'x13') where there is no dedicated seating for the purpose of listening to music. There is a drum set, 2 keyboards, 2 guitar positions, stereo rack flanked by speakers and a plasma tv on the wall above the stereo system. The center of the room is open as the music equipment has been placed more towards the walls. The 805s just don't have enough clarity and instrument separation when listening to them from one of the music positions. For the most part, the only time the stereo system is on is when I am playing one of the instruments.

Speaker positioning is limited in this current layout. Hopefully, a larger room will happen in the next few years but for now, this is it. If the room size does change, I will design a dedicated listening space in the new room. This is the reason for buying the best equipment possible for now (budget permitting). If the right pieces are added now, they won't necessarily have to be changed later.

I understand that these speakers do require some power to push them. "Preowned equipment" for the amplifier would be "preferred". Budget for the amplifier would probably max out at the $4,000-$4,500 range, but do not have to spend that much if something more economical does a great job. Musical style ranges from Blues, 70's-80's Rock, Santana, 'especially' acoustic guitar, etc... (not a fan of classical, but can appreciate it).

My current amplifier that will be replaced is a Rotel 1080. No problems with it, just thought it would be a good time to upgrade. I don't mind spending the money as long as it makes a noticeable difference!!!!!! Just trying to think long term and I do appreciate quality equipment.
bhpedalpusher
jdoris
972 posts
 
I think Spectron monoblocks would be great, but a single amp has plenty of juice, and will sound great. Given what you have to spend, I'd rather put the extra money into a nice preamp.

If I were you, I think Spectron would be the frontrunner also, especially since they are neighbors.
bhpedalpusher OP
18 posts
 
Thanks John!

I will follow up with them. Will keep you posted.

Jim
robertd
76 posts
 
I've heard the Gallo Reference 3.5 once, and they sounded amazing. Amazing enough that I find myself from time to time thinking of buying a pair. The amp driving them then was a pass aleph 3 - 30 watts of Class A.
bhpedalpusher OP
18 posts
 
Robert,

Thanks for your input. It looks like I will be trying them with the Spectron since their location is only 20 minutes from my home. I expect speakers to arrive next friday.

Jim
sunnyjim
927 posts
 
I would recommend the Red Dragon M-500 class D digital monoblocks. They retail for 1600.00. I own a pair of them and think they provide the best bang for the buck. The amps are very dynamic, neutral and transparent with just a tad of brightness on top I believe there was an excellent member review on AG about a year ago

Unfortunatley, I may have to sell my RD amps because of recent financial difficulties, and down size my entire system. So you may see an ad in the coming week or so for them. The Gallo 3.5 are power hungry, but the RD M-500 should drive them superbly. ....Jim
More to discover