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help w/amp demo

On Friday, Sounds Real Audio of Golden, Colorado will be coming to my home to demo its Dehavilland 50a 40w tube amp w/my Aerial Model 9 speakers (full range, 90db sensitive, 4ohm). Given how good the 50a sounded at RMAF, I am very excited.

Nonetheless, while the 50a is designed to drive a bigger load than its specs would suggest, I am a little skeptical that it will be a good match w/the 9s (although I am hopeful). Thus, I have been doing a lot of reading on how to determine whether an amp is a good match w/a speaker and has enough power. In general, I think I have a handle on it.

One thing I don't understand is mention of a speaker making the amp "work too hard" as opposed to drving it w/"ease". I only understand that in the most general sense. My question is, how will I be able to tell if the amp is having to "work too hard" in driving my speakers? What should I look/listen for? Also, more generally, if people have ideas for how to decide if the amp is a good mate, I would love to hear them.

Thanks much.
shredder
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Listen for controlled, detailed, and extended bass.

Listen for extended highs.

Turn up the volume and play some music with wide dynamic peaks and valleys. Are the peaks reproduced fully, or are they constricted?

Frankly, unless you've heard your speakers with an amp that's a good match, it may be challenging to know what they sound like when properly matched.

Is there an experienced audiophile or two nearby who could come listen with you?

DeHavilland showed with 88db Wilson Benesch Curve loudspeakers at RMAF. The speakers were 6 ohms nominal with a 4 ohm minimum specification. They did sound quite good in a smallish room with a nearfield set-up.
shredder's avatar
shredder OP
93 posts
 
Thanks Tvad. I think my current power is a good match-Classe CAM 350- I am just interested in the richer sound a good tube amp can provide (at RMAF, I always gravitate to the tube gear). A friend of mine will attend the demo as well, but he is no more experienced in this area than I am.

How can I determine if the amp is being strained? Or, should I just listen for bass and dynamics?

Thanks.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
How can I determine if the amp is being strained? Or, should I just listen for bass and dynamics?

Thanks.
Shredder (Answers)
Just compare it to what you're used to hearing with the Classe amp on dynamic material. You'll know if the music sounds right or not.

BTW, I was impressed with the 50A amps. In fact, I contacted Kara yesterday, but I don't think the situation is going to work out for me (no local audition, etc).
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
What a way to go. Wish a had a 'Sounds Real' type dealer in my area, one that comes to your system. That is the best way to determine whether a significant improvement in your system sound can be achieved.
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