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RE: PS Audio Sprout vs classic Harman Kardon pm650




Hello and welcome!

I for one am happy to have new blood joining this hobby. I'm guessing that your not yet suffering from digestive issues, male pattern baldness, prostate issues, arthritis, and you still have a fairly flat stomach. All of this makes you an anomaly here on Audio Asylum.

OK, all kidding aside, let's start with Bluetooth, or the lack of it. The HK does not offer a integrated Bluetooth solution but, this can be remedied by simply adding a Bluetooth receiver which can be plugged into one of the line level inputs on the HK. These can be had for less than $50 on Amazon.

The Sprout has been reported to have some frequency response anomalies, mainly a significant boost in the lower midrange. This is presumably for increased "perceived" bass response for budget type speakers that will more than likely be mated to it. Let's face it, the Sprout will not likely have full range floor standers ($$$$$$) hooked up to it. Since you will be running a subwoofer, and thus would not require additional low frequency response boost, I would consider this a detriment.

Speaking of subwoofers; Most all powered subs (built in amplifier) allow for LFE (low level signal input via rca from the preamp out), and high level inputs (signal taken from the speaker jacks).

I would guess that most including myself prefer the high level method for connecting a sub. I however, choose to run the speakers full range, that is connecting the sub via speaker output and thus not using the crappy crossover found in most subs. To do this simply run a pair of speaker cables directly to the sub, then run a additional pair of cables from the amp to your speakers. Next; While you are in your desired listening position, have a friend gradually turn up the frequency level on the sub until the bass begins to get thick and congested, then back it down just a bit.

If it's not clear yet, I vote for the HK vs the Sprout BUT........The HK is on the older side and has old electrolytic capacitors that are a ticking time bomb. If it were me, I would consider something like the Cambridge Audio 651 currently on the "Trader Asylum" at this time for $350.
I have no affiliation with the seller.

Take your time and gather as much information as you can before laying your cash down.

Also; the guys over at the "vinyl" Asylum will be invaluable to you if you need help with your turntable setup.

Good luck!




Edits: 02/04/16 02/04/16 02/05/16

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