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Can a new amplifier affect speaker placement?

Hi all,

So I went out and got me a shiny new amp. One thing I'm certain I've noticed is the bass isn't as rich as with the old amp. The new amp is well-known for its bass response. The old one may have been too (don't remember) - but it's less than half the power and a fourth the cost of the new one. Both amps are overachievers in their price category. In short - I've trouble believing my little Creek 5350SE has bigger bass than my NAD M2. I wonder if something else is going on. Has anyone had to re-position their speakers, following a new amp purchase?
sturgl
winoguy17
1,150 posts
 
+1 Mezmo.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Both amps are overachievers in their price category.
Sturgl
03-07-13


Yes, all amps in specific, and equipment in general, are overacheivers in their price category. LOL! I'm sorry, but that just sounds like sales-speak to me. A component's performance and price are not directly linked.

Don't buy the hype, listen with your own ears, and let them be the judge. If the NAD is brand new, give it some time to burn in, but just because it cost more does not mean it will be better than your old amp.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,399 posts
 
Absolutely yes, it can.

Each amp change I have made in recent years has required changes in speaker placement for best results. The biggest was moving to current Class D amps from prior Class A. That produced a startling change in soundstage, imaging and dynamics that required subsequent tweaks to get tuned back in.
acbc
38 posts
 
The issue might be related to the nature of amp. The NAD is a digital amp, which I believe is called a class "D". The Creek is a hi-current type, probably "AB". From what I've been reading digital amps can be a bit thin sounding. Some of the positive points about "D" types are little to no heat and low electric consumption. The NAD might not be the best amp for you at this time. NAD makes more convention designed amps that are well reguarded too. You might want to look into one of those if you're looking exclusively for that brand - good luck.
williamsims
32 posts
 
Another way of viewing the problem: your new amp may be "showing" you that your speakers weren't optimally to begin with.

As Philjolet rightly points out, this is part of the fun!
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