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Suggestions on a new /used amp for Focal speakers.

Hello.
My speakers are Focal 826W powered by two rebuild Sony TA-55ES , but i think it is time sell them and to upgrade to one amplifier.
Some details: room is 12 by 18 feet with cathedral ceiling/lots of curtains, large paintings, carpet floors.
Amplifier is set up on a dedicated 20 amp line.
As far as the sound itself, mids and sound stage are more important to me than bass. Of course I want tight bass, but at my age, it is not that important.I am looking for a warm sound versus more detail.
I mostly listen to CD`s (sometimes MacBook). The genres I listen to are:  classic rock, blues and some classic music as well. Mostly low to mid level, but when the wife is gone, sometimes I crank it!
Budget is about  $ 3000 , more or less.
Thoughts? Ideas? 
Thank you for your suggestions.
(hope this make sense!)
 

rockanroller
erik_squires
5,268 posts
 
By the way, the tweeter cap mods are independent of the woofer section, if any. Focal uses SCR/Axon/Solen tweeter caps and I have repeatedly found the Mundorf MKP (around $7) each a much better match for their tweeters, and a much better cap overall. Warmer, with much better microdynamics/low volume details.

Also, the Mundorf MKP’s are a reasonably good physical fit on the crossover board. :) A little solder and hot glue and you’ll be done.

Erik
erik_squires
5,268 posts
 
As luck would have it, another DIYer has posted the schematics for the 826 V (not W) here:

http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/multi-way/269257-focal-chorus-826v-crossover-advice-needed.html

Here the crossover avoids necessary components instead of adding more. There are a couple of bypass components (C4/L4) which need small value resistors to keep them from becoming a dead short to ground.


Best,

Erik
rockanroller OP
46 posts
 
Great advice on the crossovers! Thanks to all.
What happened to the answer to the question about the amplifier upgrade?
Thanks.Fred.
audiofreak32's avatar
audiofreak32
253 posts
 
Hafler 9303 or 9505 used for $500-$1,000 range (depending on condition) - incredible sounding SS amp with GOBS of power and control and smooth highs.  I have listened to $5k - $10k amplifiers that didn't sound this good.

Also just tried a McCormack DNA-0.5 (Deluxe Rev B) which was also excellent sounding amp.

Steer clear of anything McIntosh... horribly overpriced for how they sound.

Don't drop $3,000 on a single amplifier... not necessary.
sbrownnw
652 posts
 
I love my warmish sounding Pre5 and Multi5 audio refinement / YBA gear. I'm considering selling and extra Pre5 and Multi3 AR I have on hand. 
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