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Power for Focal Aria 936

Hi all,
Just ordered a pair of Focal Aria 936s. Focal reports a sensitivity of 92dB, but a minimum impedance of 2.8 ohms is reported:
https://www.stereophile.com/content/focal-aria-936-loudspeaker-measurements

So how much power do I really need to optimize these speakers (large room)?
Current budget for power is only $1K, either integrated or pre + power. I'm certainly open to something 2-4 years old used.

Thanks for any suggestions/thoughts.
islet
sjtm
79 posts
 

I have the predecessor to the 936 - The Focal Chorus 836V.  Similar impedance dip.  I currently drive these with a Marantz PM11S3 which doubles from 100@8ohm to 200@4ohm.  These sound amazing together.  I bought my amp used for $2,400.

Prior to the 11S3, I used a Marantz PM8005 with good results ( and can usually be found used for under $800).  I would not hesitate to look for the middle sibling in this range, the Marantz PM14S1 which you can usually find used for $1,200-$1,400.  Its predecessor, the PM15S2 (same specs as the 14S1) is often available for under $1,000.

gochurchgo
144 posts
 
Im running Chrous 807’s and yes, they are sensitive but also tough to drive. I ordered an Odyssey Khartago (stereo) to drive them. Khartagos are stable to 2 ohms and this was important to me as mine hit 4 ohms in the midbass frequencies. Despite a thread full of people telling me otherwise I KNOW this is why I struggle.

You definitely want something stable to 2ohms.
jafant
10,525 posts
 

Much Thanks! kosst_amojan

Happy Listening!

jafant
10,525 posts
 

islet


Bryston is a sonic match for Focal speakers.

Happy Listening!

coolposter
3 posts
 
I recently bought a pair of 936, amp budget is also 1k+. Here's my short list:

1, Vincent SP 331, 150w 8 ohm/300w 4 ohm, 2 ohm stable
2, Odyssey Khartago, 110w 8 ohm, 2 ohm stable. Not sure if I should be getting the Plus or Extreme mod.
3, Parasound A23, 125w 8 ohm/200w 4 ohm, can do 2 ohm, but will clip at certain level according to a test report I found online.
4, Parasound 2250 v2, 275w 8 ohm/400w 4 ohm /400w 2 ohm
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