A23 vs A21 in a C2/A51 system

[P-Stone]

Hi,
I am considering getting a A23 in my C2/A51 system to get 7.1.

However, I am concerned that this will make my system unbalanced. Should I wait and save up for a A21 instead.

Any thoughts on this?

P..

[nicholtl]

I remember someone posting a question like this some time ago on the klipsch forums...and most people said while it would be ok to do so (since you'll probably never drive your amps so hard that the A23 would die out before the A51 did), it was advised that you stick to the same series within the amps. So I'd say you save up and go with the A21, so as to leave you the same amount of headroom for each and every channel.

Besides, aren't the A21's constructed a little better and use better components inside than the A23? I would think if this was the case, even at lower volumes the A21 would sound sweeter than it's little brother.

[ralniv]

I have the same question running through my mind. I'm a current C2/A51 owner, but I may want to go to 7.1 some day.

Would your local dealer be willing to let you take home his/her A23 floor model overnight for an at-home demo? You could offer to put down a healthy deposit on your credit card as an assurance that you won't walk away with their precious amp.

Good luck and keep us appraised of your decision and your satisfaction with that decision.

[Brian]

I think you'd be just fine adding the A23. It's unlikely that you'd notice the difference for surrounds.

[SpOoNmAn]

I think you'd be just fine adding the A23. It's unlikely that you'd notice the difference for surrounds.

agreed.

In Theory, or for peace of mind, you'd want all channels getting the same power. Realistically? I doubt you'd notice a difference.

[Whistler]

But only if you can control the volume seperately, otherwise there will be a difference I think.

[Brian]

I have 2 amps in my system, an A51 and a parasound 855.
Adjusting the level of each speaker during the set-up process will take care of any volume issues between speakers. The 855 only powers my 6th channel, but they blend seamlessly volume wise.

[Chris D]

Realistically, I too think that most of the time an A23 will be fine for you and you won't notice a difference. However, I think it's true that under extreme dynamic situations where you're driving all channels hard you'll want full power matched to all channels with an A21. And remember, the clean, stronger power of the A21 will give a cleaner sound not just at maximum volume, but at all volumes. So me, I did go with the full A21 and A51.