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Why has amplifier power become a big issue

Back in the day I drove my Advent speakers that were very inefficient with 30 watts per channel. Today I run Vandersteen 2 ce speakers which are more efficient then the old Advents with 50 watts per channel and way more current. By most this is underpowering the Vandersteens, what has changed?
digepix
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
What has changed?
People's perceptions of high end audio. The numbers, including pricing, have spiraled out of control since "back in the day".

If you are happy with your current amp and speakers, just ignore all of the noise. 
jafant's avatar
jafant
10,525 posts
 
"Current" should be at the center of any power amp, IMO.
This becomes an important factor on current-hungry loudspeakers.

Your Vandy 2CE speakers are very nice indeed and can sound fine at 50W.
I do not know if they crave "current" or not?  Happy Listening!
inna
5,245 posts
 
I think, most buyers of today's high-end are not audiophiles and as such have different priorities. Having said that, other things being equal I prefer more powerful higher current amps, especially transistor amps. At the same volume with the same music you can feel the difference.
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