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Newbie Part 2

Hi-

Thank you all for responding to my previous threads. To refresh your memories, I have just purchased Paradigm Studio 100 v2 speakers (used), and have a Harman Kardon AVR-25 Mark II, and a Sony carousel - model CDP-CX300. I received numerous suggestions, and went out today to listen a bit.

I heard the Rotel Rc-1070 pre and the RB-1080 main, and they sounded good (and the "new" price was good, so a used price would be better). I also listened to the Arcam cd73 and was blown away by the difference between that an the cd192.

Previous suggestions for amps include YBA Integre (seems a little low in power to me), Odyssey amps generally, and an Audio Refinement Complete (although the reviews on this were mixed). Also, my local Paradigm dealer sells, among other things, the Anthem amps (of course), and recommends them highly with my speakers (but he didn't have the amp in stock). Can I get a few opinons (many is better) on these amps for my specific speakers if you have any knwoledge and actual experience?

Also, since I always thought cd players were cd players, I was blown away by the Arcam test today. Originally, I was recommended the Audio Aero Prima, the Rega Apollo, and the Prima Luna Prologue. Ideally, I'd like to get a cd play and amp/preamp (or integrated) that will be a significant benefit to my system all for $1500 or under. Not sure if that's possible, but am also looking for cd suggestions (matched with amps) if you're so inclined.

Sorry for the long message, but I'm learning more each day. Thanks for all of your help.
blewis1041
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Blewis1041, to expand just a bit on amplifier requirements, Stereophile
measurements say the Paradigm 100 has 89.5db sensitivity...let's say
90db. However, even though the speakers have an 8 ohm nominal
impedance, there is a significant impedance dip to 2.5 ohms at 104 Hz.

To drive these to 110 db peaks at 8 ohms/1 watt/ 1 meter requires 128
watts, but to drive these at 110 db at 2.5 ohms/ 1 watt/ 1 meter
requires nearly 500 watts.

Now, if you listen at lower volume peaks, the power requirement is less,
e.g. 64 wpc at 107 db peaks, 8 ohms/1w/1m.

So, you can see your Paradigms require some juice to get going, and
they definitely require an amplifier that doubles it's power output into 4
ohms and quadruples it's output into 2 ohms, otherwise the volume at
the frequency ranges where there are impedance dips (like the 104 Hz
measurement) will be lower in relation to other frequencies...leading the
sound to appear emphasized in the mids and highs.
blewis1041 OP
16 posts
 
Thanks, Tvad. Any ideas what would fit those specs and a reasonable price? Anyone else?
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Define reasonable price.

I believe in your other thread I mentioned the Odyssey Audio Stratos or
Stratos Extreme stereo or monoblock amplifiers. I'd reiterate these
products, and I'd add an Odyssey Audio preamplifier. The amps come up
for sale used, and they are a stunning value. High current power
delivery...just what you need. As an alternative, you could call Klaus
directly (the owner of Odyssey Audio) and talk with him. He works with
customers, if you know what I mean. ;)

Also, the Unison Unico SE is a tube/SS hybrid integrated worth
considering. 140 wpc into 8 ohms. I cannot find any power specs into 4
or 2 ohms, however, so it's a qualified recommendation. There is a used
one available now for under $2000.
blewis1041 OP
16 posts
 
I was thinking $1200 or less. Actually, I was thinking a lot less, but I'm not sure that's reasonable. I think I've pretty much decided on the Rega Apollo for the cd player when I find all this money I plan to spend.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I'll bet you could get a used Stratos stereo amp and Odyssey preamp (or
other preamp), or a used Unico SE for near $1200. Maybe a couple
hundred more.

Another great option is the Portal Panache integrated. 100wpc into 8
ohms, 200 wpc into 4 ohms. You can occasionally find them used for
less than $1200. If you're patient and see one, then snap it up.

Also, for less than $500, you could add a tubed DAC to your Sony
changer by utilizing the Sony CDP-CX300 optical output. DACs from this E-Bay seller
are getting lots of positive buzz from folks over at AudioCircle who are
using them. Of course, this would be in lieu of a new CD player.
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