Multi-channel amp recommendations

[1KW]

I have a mc207 , I'm only using 5 channels but may expand to 7.1 at some point. I'm driving inefficient magnepan III front L/R without any problems at normal listening levels.

[Poppyhome]

I have a MC207 and use the 2 extra channels for my outside speakers. Previously had Classe CA5100 and CA2100. The Mac's were a big upgrade in sonics.

Ron

[Prestige Worldwide]

Originally Posted by Poppyhome

I have a MC207 and use the 2 extra channels for my outside speakers. Previously had Classe CA5100 and CA2100. The Mac's were a big upgrade in sonics.

Ron

Thanks Ron. Can you elaborate on the upgrade? I'm seriously considering the CA5200. I'm really intrigued by the fact that the Classe amps run in Classe A mode initally and switch to A/B as power demands.

Was it a "house sound" issue or did you find the 5100 was lacking in a particular area when compared to the Mac. Also, what kind of speakers are you using for your HT?

Thanks again,

David

[Poppyhome]

David Throughout my hifi adventure I have noticed an improvement with every upgrade, and that is one's goal. My present speakers are listed in my signature with SF Cremona M's up front.

The Classe CA5100 and CA2100 were great sounding amps but not enough bite for my room. It is true the Classes' run the mostly in Class A mode and have a sweet sound. The McIntosh MC207 are more powerful, better contrast between high's and low's (dynamics), better imaging and separation of instruments. I seem to hear more information. I enjoy my system more, so that's what really matters. Maybe it's a placebo effect. But if so............so what, it's a hobby and I love it.

The Classe CA5200, being more powerful than the CA5100, maybe just the ticket for you. You can't loss with either the CA5200 or the MC205/207. Esthetics and with the Mac's higher price point will be your determining factors. I didn't like the fact of Classe moving production to China.

Ron

[Prestige Worldwide]

Thanks Ron.

I'm eliminating the Wired4Sound amp. Just not interested in taking the Class D plunge.

Right now, there's an MC205 available at AudioClassics for $4250, a MET150 for $3950 at Spearit Sound,, and a CA5200 on Agon for over $4500. Struggling to come up with other alternatives..

[SMC23]

That's a great price on the mc205. I normally see them list in the 4.5k area.

[trek737]

Originally Posted by Prestige Worldwide

Looking to spend up to $3500 (preferably second hand) on what will primarily be an HT amp. Speakers are Gallo Reference Stradas, pre pro is a D2v.

David

Glad to see another D2V owner on AA! Best of luck with choosing your new amps... Classe and Mac amps are two good selections. I love my Mac amps!!!

Cheers,
Jim

[Prestige Worldwide]

Thanks Jim. I do love my D2V..

Anyone familiar with either the Classe CAV150? Rated at 150x6 (8 ohms), but can be bridged to run 300x3. I'm considering this and possibly later pairing it with a 2 channel CA2200.

[LordoftheRingsEE]

Would you consider an Emotiva XPA-5 multichannel amplifier? Here ...But it's only $899.00 with a 5-year warranty though.

And a Review

* For your budget, you can go with three XPA-1s (three front mains: L, C, R), and one XPA-2 (surrounds): $3,796
Or, one XPA-1 (center channel), and two XPA-2s (front L & R flankers and surrounds): $2,597
Or, one XPA-2 (front mains L & R), and one XPA-3 (center channel and surrounds): $1,498

** Or a second-hand Bryston 9B-SST (if you can find one for your price).

[cougit25]

I use the McIntosh MC58 which is an 8 channel amplifier with no complaints.

Any two of its eight channels can be bridge to output 100 watts per channel into four ohms. I bridge six channels to power my fronts and center speakers with 100 watts each. The remaining two channels powers my surround speakers with 50 watts each. This is a McIntosh amp so I'm sure its output ratings are on the conservative side.

My theater is 20' deep x 15' wide and I can achieve awesome output from this amp and have yet to see the power guard activated. I personally think it's McIntosh's best kept secret in the value/power equation for home theater.