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Good upgrade amp for my Thiel 3.6s

My apologies if this has been pondered already. I did a quick search of the site for 3.6s and didn't find a similar thread.

I'm looking for opinions on what amp would seriously upgrade my sound from where it is currently. I have a KSA-150 driving the 3.6s.

I've heard people say that 3.6s can sound even better with more power and a dealer recommended 200W/channel as a minimum for them.

He was showing me the Classe Cam350s. Are monoblocks the way to go, or is there a killer stereo amp out there that's not in the price leagues of Boulder?

Obviously, I'm sure there's plenty of great choices, but I'd like to keep costs somewhat reasonable. I know the Classes retail for $7K for the pair. I was hoping to stay at $4K or under, but won't rule out the 350s if they really make a noticeable difference.

Thoughts?
justin2468
garfish
1,840 posts
 
I would think that you'd want an amp that was not inherently bright sounding as the Thiel 3.6s can be very revealing. I can highly recommend the McCormack DNA2 or DLX or any of the SMc Revisions. The DNA2 puts out 300/600/1200 wpc into 8,4, and 2 Ohms, and these are probably conservative ratings. The DNA2 amps are "giant killers" well beyond their original $4300-5000. MSRPs. The DNA2s can be found used in the $2400.-$2800. range. I use a DNA2DX Rev. A with Vand. 5 speakers-- the 5s don't need all that power, but your 3.6s could use it.

BTW, McCormack Audio now has the DNA-500 out (that's 500 wpc 8 Ohms), but I've yet to see it advertised used. Peter Moncrief of IAR declared it "the best amplifier on the planet"-- $6700. new I think. Good Luck and Cheers. Craig
glen's avatar
glen
714 posts
 
I own a pair of 3.6 Thiels. I use a Classe CA-301 to drive them effortlessly. The amp gives me plenty of slam and is very musical. I definitely recommend three hundred watts minimum no matter what you decide. Try NBS or MIT Reference cabling too.
rmml's avatar
rmml
204 posts
 
I used to own a Thiel CS3.6 myself being driven by a Krell FPB200, that was a good match with NBS Monitor series cabling. The FPB series Krell amps in my opinion is a good match for the Thiels with the right cabling and room acoustics I have not heard any amp that comes even close.
fineberg
151 posts
 
I think the perfect thing would be the brand new high power Musical Fidelity amp the 'A300cr' (don't confuse it withthe 'A300' integrated amp). This sells new for around $3400. THe whole A-cr series have been amazing, detailed but not overly bright. This on has all the design features of the NuVista amps, but with solid state noise-floor and convenience. I use the lower power A3cr and would definately switch if $$$ allowed. I believe you can try one at home with a 30-day return from any of the US MF dealers.
kgb540
125 posts
 
I would have to give Plinius a vote hear. The SA-100MKIII would be an excellent choice. Pure class A up to 100 watts would make your speakers come alive. They look sweet too! I've used them with a set of 2.3's and it was nothing short of marvelous.
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