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Help! Best amp for Rockport Aviors?

I recently purchased a pair of Rockport Aviors to replace my Dynaudio C2s. My system comprises of a Berkeley Reference DAC, Spectral DMC-30SS preamp, and Spectral DMA-260 stereo amp. My intial impression was disappointing - "hot" treble and a lack of low end slam. I assumed that my amp didn't have enough current to drive the Aviors properly so I auditioned the Spectral DMA-400 RS monos with the Aviors and that combo still didn't resonate in the way I first heard the Aviors (kicking myself for not noting the system). My current theory is that the Spectral gear (as much as I love it) isn't a good match for the Rockports; therefore, I have a bit of a quandary - ditch my Spectral system or the Aviors.

I know that Andrew uses a Gryphon stack to voice his speakers. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't kmow of a USA Gryphon dealer and wouldn't purchase a Gryphon component without hearing it in person first.

So cut to the chase: Avior owners out there - what do you drive them with that results in the "softer" treble and bass slam that I know these speakers are capable of. My current guess is to audition Pass Labs.
jason_john_howes
jperry
1,408 posts
 
I have heard the Aviors a few times at a local dealer with Aesthetix Saturn Eclipse electronics (Romulus CD/DAC, Calypso preamp, Atlas amplifier) and Transparent cables. They did not sound hot or fatiguing at all. I agree with soix that you should contact Rockport, and you should also have your local dealer help you with the setup.
steakster
720 posts
 
If your C2’s are ’shouty’, this indicates something is amiss in your system - not the speaker(s). Since the Aviors are hi-rez, the issue will be even more pronounced with them. Once again, Al’s detective work is right on target. Set-up is probably a contributing factor.
paul79
163 posts
 
It seems like a room interaction to me also. These speakers need room to breath based on my limited time with a couple different Rockport speakers, and plenty of current delivery to properly drive them. Get them right though, and you will have speakers to rival all others at any price. They are truly magical when all things are correct.

Pull them out into the room a few inches at a time and see what happens.
rhyno's avatar
rhyno
642 posts
 
used boulder 1060 w rockport merak / sheritan to great effect. they need current and rockports are not bright in the treble. thats something else (could be cabling too, but suspect its spectral).

pass & (older) krell would be good bets too. gryphon of course. 
tom_hankins
850 posts
 
I've heard them sound really good with  BAT SS amps, and with simaudio. Neither system was "hot" sounding. Both played big, detailed,  and slightly warm. 
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