Amplifier-Speaker matching

jml15 -- Thu, 05/27/2010 - 08:48

Hi Everyone,

I tried asking this question on the amplifier forum, but didn't hear anything back. Perhaps this is the more appropriate place. I have got a pair of revel f52s and was wondering if anyone had a recommendation regarding amplifier maker and wattage. My frustration is that it is tough to find a store that carries more than one of these brands to do a head-to-head comparison and to find a place that also has revel speakers is nearly impossible. Guess that is the penalty we pay for living in the middle of nowhere. Anyway, some of the brands/models I was considering

Pass Labs X150.5
Bel Canto ref500
Classe 3200
Parasound Halo (250 watt version)
Odyssey stratos monoblocks

Thoughts? Is there an additional maker I should consider?

Thanks,

Jon

Robert Harley -- Mon, 05/31/2010 - 21:18

It's a hassle, but it's worth taking your loudspeakers to the dealer to listen to the combination. Alternatively, you could narrow your amplifier choices to two or three models and see if you could borrow each of them for an evening. I suspect that all those amplifiers you are considering have enough power to drive teh Revels.

jml15 -- Wed, 06/02/2010 - 13:56

Robert,

Thanks so much for your comments! I can only imagine how busy you are and really do appreciate your time and expertise.
I can audition Classe, but the other brands are not available within 100-200 miles. And, I hate limiting myself to 1 option - never a good thing. If you have any suggestions regarding particular amp makers or models which would be good sonic matches that would be a huge help! Recently read about the Rogue m180s, which also looked interesting.

Many thanks,

Jon