2. amps-preamps
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can a new amp amp tame my speakers?

Just spent some time listening to what I've been planning to upgrade to for main speakers. PSB Synchronys. The Imagine T2's are close, but slightly veiled in comparison. My current, but old, Infinity Kappa 7's really don't give much away to the PSB's. My amp is an old Yamaha MX2, 125wpc, and I've heard them described as bright or harsh, and that's the only complaint I really have with the sound now. Can a well-chosen amp tame the highs on the Kappa'a, which use a ribbon-style tweeter? Or is the 'taming' I seek only going to happen with a speaker upgrade. I honestly don't mind upgrading the speakers, and fully expected to, but after today's auditioning, I'm wondering if I'm going to get that much benefit from that level of investment. $3500+ is a healthy chunk of coin for benefits of slimmer profile and tamed highs. In terms of imaging, weight, and bass, the Kappa's are equal, imo. The system is also the theater, but the avr can power the surrounds, so an amp upgrade could be 2 channel. A power boost is a must too, as the current 125wpc isn't enough for when wifey's not home and the volume gets wound up ;)
english210
english210 OP
175 posts
 
Krell KAV250 2-channel for $1200
Odyssey Stratos Plus $750
Krell 400xi - $1600+

Debate please....I am leaning toward the Odyssey for $$ reasons, but would that be short sighted?
unsound
7,336 posts
 
I tend to agree with Audiolabyrinth. Some how Krell has gotten an underserved reputation for being bright (at least IMHO), at the very worst they can be perhaps a bit grainy in the treble, but not bright. If anything Krells might be a touch dark. Krells usually have lots of power and amazing dynamics, both micro and macro, which may or may not explain this unfair (IMHO) reputation. Or could be that they've been victimized by their own success?
I also find that their intergrateds don't have the same composure that their separates do when asked to work 4 Ohms and below. YMMV.
english210 OP
175 posts
 
Well, my offer was accepted on the Stratos. Worst case, I can resell for less of a loss than if I bought new, best case, it'll cure what ails the Kappas. I'll report back in a few days. I needed to try something, and this is a less expensive way to put the theories to the test....thanks, all.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
@ English210,congradulations!,keep us posted on the sound of the amp you obtained with your infinitys!,I am currious of the match!thanks!cheers!
english210 OP
175 posts
 
Me too! Very curious! Thanks again. If this used Odyssey hadn't come along right when it did, I probably would have gone with one of the Krell's, since I've known about them forever, and like many, listed after one...this way though, my theory as to 'fixing' the issue with my kappas by giving them 'real' power can be tested with less $$ risk. If it doesn't work?....well, that's the fun of the hobby, right??
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