I'd like more power to my speakers.

[RXDI]

I've been out of the game for a year or so and am looking for some guidance on what to do here. I need more power to my speakers.

I currently have a Onkyo TX-SR706 pushing my B&W's (see sig) and really like the functionality of the receiver and would like to keep it, but it really does not have the power to take the B&W's to their potential.

Can I just get a separate amp to power the fronts and leave the receiver to power the Center and Rears?

What would you recommend I do?
Is it possible to get something worth using for under $300?
Am I out of my mind and the Onkyo should be enough?


Again, I'd really like to try and keep the Onkyo to keep costs down.

[JeremyG]

Well, from the looks of your receiver, it has pre-outs, which is step one. That means you can use a separate two channel amp for your left and right mains. $300 and under pretty much limits you to used gear, especially now that Emotiva appears to have discontinued their UPA-2. You can look at two channel amps on Audiogon, and you may get lucky and find a good one in your price range. Also try the for sale section here. Something may pop up. Good luck.

[wkhanna]

Am I out of my mind

No.

Can I just get a separate amp to power the fronts and leave the receiver to power the Center and Rears?

Yes.

Is it possible to get something worth using for under $300?

Meh, maybe?

What would you recommend I do?

1st recommendation: RB1080

2nd recommendation: See 1st recommendation.

[RXDI]

Thanks guys! I will most likely wait a little longer to save some money and get something better. Most likely something from the Emotiva series.

[gimpy]

I have the Behringer A500. A good inexpensive option under your budget. YMMV

[Hammie]

Well, from the looks of your receiver, it has pre-outs, which is step one. That means you can use a separate two channel amp for your left and right mains. $300 and under pretty much limits you to used gear, especially now that Emotiva appears to have discontinued their UPA-2. You can look at two channel amps on Audiogon, and you may get lucky and find a good one in your price range. Also try the for sale section here. Something may pop up. Good luck.

He could also join the Emotiva forums and see if anyone if selling an XPA-2 or UPA-2. Either would be a great upgrade to his fronts for his budget.

Then again, I have Emotiva pushing my system and feel they are great bang for the buck. :T