2. amps-preamps
  3. 1399317479

Looking to upgrade amp

Hi everyone,

I hope that this message find you well. I'm currently using an Exposure 2010s2 (75 wpc) integrated amp. It's certainly a very fine amp for the money (the previous version received a Class A from Stereophile). The rest of my system is an Oppo BDP 105 for CD/SACD and the excellent (IMHO) KEF LS50 speakers.

I'm happy with the speakers and CD source, but I'm finding the amp to be a bit too "clinical/analytical" sounding. Also, the rather low sensitivity of the KEFs (85db, 3.2 ohm minimum) suggests that a higher power/higher current amp would be a better match (In fact, I contacted Exposure. and they suggested not using the 2010 with 4 ohm speakers). I have never owned a tube amp, so I might be interested in moving that direction. However, I am concerned about the lower sensitivity of my speakers, so I'm looking for your input on this issue.

For convenience's sake, I prefer to stick with an integrated, but the Exposure does have a pre-out, so I could move to separates (assuming that the Exposure functions well enough as a pre to allow the new amp to show its stuff).

Do any of you have recommendations for amps/integrateds to consider up to about $3,000(USD) that might provide a warmer and/or less forward sound?

Thanks for your time!

Best,
Scott
smrex13

Showing 1 response by mesch

mesch
1,679 posts
 
Simrex13, I am a little late to chime in here, however I believe you are on the right tract. Tune your room to first get the most of what you have, then consider the amplification issues. You have a well balanced quality system regarding performance/$$$. Given the number of fine integrateds in your price range, Ialso believe that is the way to proceed should you decide to upgrade.

Room treatment is a good DIY project, provdning great return on investment, let us know how it goes. Good luck.
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