Amplifier comparison questions

[Tamas]

Hello, I posted a similar question in the Rotel forum, but I thought I could get your thoughts as well. I have a mix of amplifiers from different companies. My concern is that because they have different max gain and voltage levels I may not be getting a cohesive sound field. I would like to purchase a 5 channel amp from either Parasound, Rotel or Anthem. I am looking for your opinions or experiences - amps are MCA50, RMB1075 or Halo A52.

Thank you.

Regards, Tom

[Peter Nielsen]

Hello, I posted a similar question in the Rotel forum, but I thought I could get your thoughts as well. I have a mix of amplifiers from different companies. My concern is that because they have different max gain and voltage levels I may not be getting a cohesive sound field.

This is not an issue if you have a pre-amp with individual speaker level calibration like the Parasound C1, C2, or 2500.

Did you consider that room acoustics and speaker placement may also attribute to differences between the channels? The best solution to your worries will be a pre-amp that is able to measure and compensate for any gain differences caused by amps, speakers, and speaker placement :T

Peter

[Tamas]

I am using a preamp from another manufacturer - I just had this nagging feeling that this mismatch somehow may contribute to a negative overall sound quality. Thanks for the information Peter.

Regards, Tom

[Chris D]

Tom, one thing that may help would be if you posted what your various amplifier models are!

[Tamas]

Hi Chris, currently I am using a Linn LK140, NAD C272 and an older Acurus 200x3. I have Linn Ninka's for left/right, Linn av5120 cc, Linn Trikan surrounds and B&W surrounds - to be replaced by Linn Katan's. The processor is an Arcam AVP700.

I used to have a Denon 4802, with Paradigm Esprit bipolars, cc450, ADP350 and Mini monitor rear surrounds. The sub is Paradigms Servo15 v1.

I found the sound of the Paradigm/Denon combo to be on the bright side - mid bass seemed to be lean - so I started the upgade path - the Acurus amp was added many years ago to run the front 3 channels...

I am looking for a nice smooth, lush sound, as opposed to sterile and analytical.

Regards, Tom

[mikepinkerton]

I have a 4802 with an A51 and Paradigm Studio40s. The denon sounds much better with an external amp, I ran it standalone for a few years and found the sound stage to be greatly improved once i added an external amp. Probably anything you get will make it sound better.

-Mike