|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
71.6.4.66
Hi all, just made a deal on the SC7S2 preamp. Unfortunately, I won't have the funds to get the matching MA9S2, but was wondering if any of you have recommendations for amps? I need at least a good 150wpc into 8 ohms. Of course, what I would like, listed from top to bottom, really due to funds and costs are as follows (used):
Marantz MA9S2 monos ($7500)
Pass Labs X350.5 ($6000)
Ayre V5xe ($2500)
Odessy Extreme Monos ($2500)
Emotiva XPA-2 (two stereo amps for bi-amp) at $800 each
What do you all think?
Opinions are welcome!
Follow Ups:
If you can't swing the Marantz monos, why not go down a notch in the Marantz Reference line and get a SM11S1 stereo power amp. It was on the cover of Stereophile when it was new. I love mine, which I use with the matching SC11S1 preamp.
Thanks for the suggestion. The SC7S2 purchase is now off, as working payment to Canada was too trying and we'll, after spending 45 minutes at the BofA and not being successful at wiringt HW funds, I think my PATH now is to Biamp with another PM11S3.
What do you think?
You could buy a cheap amp to tide you over until you save the money for the amp you really want. I just bought a Crown XLS 1500, which is currently on sale for $199. I've been playing it for two weeks and it doesn't sound that bad at all. In fact, I'm rather enjoying the change from my Parasound Halo A21.
Thanks John,
I already have the PM11S3 integrated and will use the amp section of this integrated as the amp for the SC7S2. It's hard to imagine that the PM11S3 could be improved as it's such a great piece!
Thanks for the suggestion.
Tuan
You do know that the amp section in that integrated """IS""" the same as the mono blocks you are looking at. the only difference is the power output.
are you certain? If so it behooves me not to get another one to Biamp.
How do you know?
That is a FINEEEEE preamp!!!!! I actually did hear one at a local shop years ago. But it was clearly out of my price range. A sweet looking piece as well.
I did hear it with the matching amps - NICE!!!!
If you can get the amps they are excellent. I did hear them and yeap - I was impressed!!!!!
Thanks for the notes on the sound of the SC7S2 and matching MA9S2. Those are the amps I want, but not sure how I will ever afford them. In the meantime, I guess I will try some other lower end amps...
Hey - don't underestimate lower ended amps!!!! Like I said, the Marantz is nice. but would I!!!!!! pay eight grand - hell no! If I won the lottery - sure.But being the regular guy I am - no. However those Odyssey's seem to be consistent in getting good reviews.
A good preamp is worth the money. But don't go crazy with amps. They do make a difference but in the end the preamp IS!!! more important.
The main thing is matching the amp to your sound taste.
What are YOU looking for in sound?
charles
Edits: 11/14/15
Hi Charles,
Thanks...I had the Mono Extremes before, and loved them... There are things I like from them, but in the end, like all of us, I traded up or traded towards different.
Sound wise, I like details and also some warmth. Not glaring, bright details, not boomy warmth, I like a good balance. I don't want to cringe at glaring details but don't want bass to overshadow the rest of the music as well. Honestly, I love my Marantz gear, currently the PM11S3 is awesome. Kind of bought this SC7S2 because it's a great deal and always wanted one....
My plan is to use it with the PM11S3 first and see how it goes, if the sound is noticeably better, than, I am keeping the SC7, if not, then I am keeping the PM11S3.
I have had Pass X250, Odessy Mono Extremes, EVS M100 and M500 combo, Some tubes (Cyber 800), Emotiva XPA5, etc.
Thanks
Tuan
See if you can patch in the amp section of that to the new preamp. If you are amble?I LUSTED after that integrated amp for years !!!!!!
Enjoy them all.
I would not recommend the lower end Marantz power amps. Very dull. However their higher ended stuff is quite good.
charles
Edits: 11/14/15
hey Charles, I am putting up the PM11S3 for sale as I could use the unds to fund the new amps...
Interested?
Tuan
No thanks, I'm back into tubes these days. And I'm quite happy with my two setups.
I'v chased that solid state demon for far too many years.
Post a Followup:
FAQ |
Post a Message! |
Forgot Password? |
|
||||||||||||||
|
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors: