2-channel system

Rand Philip -- Wed, 03/25/2009 - 18:12

Hi,
I'm wanting as great a sounding 2-channel system as I can have in the 3k range (amp/speakers) I'm considering a 2-channel set-up consisting of a NAD integrated amp and possibly the Focal Chorus 726V speakers or the Focal Chorus 826V speakers(opinions) Or any suggestions of a better 2-channel set-up in the 3k range. My listening room is in a furnished basement roughly 15' x 30' I would would greatly appreciate opinions/feedback
P.S. I mostly listen to Classic Rock
Thanks,
Rand

Robert Harley -- Fri, 03/27/2009 - 10:52

I haven't heard the Focal 826, but have reviewed the smaller 706V. I noted in the review that the speaker had exceptional bass and dynamics for the size and price, making it particularly suited to rock. NAD always makes the reference standard in affordable integrated amplifiers; it's hard to go wrong with a NAD integrated. Can you hear the NAD/Focal combination together before you buy?

Rand Philip -- Fri, 03/27/2009 - 17:53

Thank you for responding!
I'm really not as knowlegable about stereo electronics as I would like to be. I've had the same stereo equipment since 1979. Due to problems with both of the components(reciever/speakers) I'm looking for something new. I don't really know where to begin, other than finding places to listen to different brands, and getting knowlegable opinions of others like yours. Now getting to back to your question. Yes! I've recently heard the 826V and the 716V Focal Chorus speakers. I believe the dealer was using a NAD reciever and another brand of amplifier. The speakers sounded pretty good. I'm no audiophile by any means. I've also had recomendations to listen to the B&W 700 series speakers(704, and 703) with Rotel RC-1070 preamp and the RB-1070, or 1080 amplifier. I would very much appreciate your opinion/advise between the two systems. I'm just really looking for a 2-channel system I can be happy with for a long time! I listen to mostly Classical Rock, and Blues. Again Thank you for responding! I really appreciate it!

Rand Craycroft

Robert Harley -- Tue, 03/31/2009 - 14:30

The B&W 700-series is also an excellent choice, as is the absolutely killer B&W 685 at $650 per pair.
Rotel has an entirely new series of integrated amplifiers (see my report in the April/May issue of The Absolute Sound from the Consumer Electronics Show or on-line here: http://www.avguide.com/blog/robert-harley-highlights-entry-level-electronics-ces-2009). We haven't evaluated the new Rotel electronics yet, but they have a long track record of making very good sounding and high-value electronics. I would listen to both systems and judge which one best connects you with the music. Take your time in auditioning both systems, bring your favorite music (rather than letting the dealer choose), and see which one communicates the music better. Listen for specific attributes such as smoothness, dynamics, and bass extension, but also listen purely to the music and not just to the sound.