804D2 vs. CM9s?

[EfeTe]

Not exactly the same models but anyway. Loved my CMs (CM5) and I really, really like the CM9's -in fact I'm trying to get a pair for my office. But the leap (from CM5) to 805D was really noticeable and I'm very happy as sound quality is up a notch and you get a bit more refinement in my opinion.

[Madfonzy]

I went from CM10S1 to 805D2 up front and I also have a pair of DIY 10 subs up front to fill in the bass. I must say I enjoy this setup much better than the CM10s. Better sound quality and soundstage.

Next aim is to get a pair of 803D3 and move the 805 to rear duties

[Exsg]

Hi All,

I have a CM9 fed by Primare I30 with source Consonance Linear 110. I have had this setup for 7 years now and think it is not great. I feel the Primare does not have enough power to work the speakers.

Due to financial constraints, I am thinking to either:

1. upgrade the speakers to 803D3 using the same electronics
2. to keep the CM9 and upgrade the amp to McIntosh 302 with C47 or Classe Sigma Mono with SSP
3. upgrade to MC452 and use the Primare as preamp

Concern is - 302 may not be enough juice for 803D3 in future. Also Sigma series is Class D. 452 is another AUD3800 extra which is quite a lot considering what both these cost already.

Another thing is, pairing a CM9 with these amps is an overkill. It probably will bring out the best in the speakers but will still be lacking. I think it would be like using my Primare I30 with the Quad 11L (which I still have); a jump from my first amp - the NAD integrated 320BEE. NAD did not have enough power whereas Primare is more than sufficient but the lack of definition of the Quads clearly showed then.

On the other hand, using the Primare with the 803D3 probably will be underperforming and not enjoyable.

What would you suggest?


My other setup which I love is:
Prima Luna Prologue 2
Ayre Cx5eMP
805s
MIT AVT2 Biwire
Xindak power conditioner

Many thanks for your advice!

[bgiliberti]

Originally Posted by Exsg

Hi All,I have a CM9 fed by Primare I30 with source Consonance Linear 110. I have had this setup for 7 years now and think it is not great. I feel the Primare does not have enough power to work the speakers.Due to financial constraints, I am thinking to either:
1. upgrade the speakers to 803D3 using the same electronics
2. to keep the CM9 and upgrade the amp to McIntosh 302 with C47 or Classe Sigma Mono with SSP
3. upgrade to MC452 and use the Primare as preamp

Concern is - 302 may not be enough juice for 803D3 in future. Also Sigma series is Class D. 452 is another AUD3800 extra which is quite a lot considering what both these cost already.

Another thing is, pairing a CM9 with these amps is an overkill. It probably will bring out the best in the speakers but will still be lacking. I think it would be like using my Primare I30 with the Quad 11L (which I still have); a jump from my first amp - the NAD integrated 320BEE. NAD did not have enough power whereas Primare is more than sufficient but the lack of definition of the Quads clearly showed then.
On the other hand, using the Primare with the 803D3 probably will be underperforming and not enjoyable.
What would you suggest?
My other setup which I love is:
Prima Luna Prologue 2
Ayre Cx5eMP
805s
MIT AVT2 Biwire
Xindak power conditioner
Many thanks for your advice!

No brainier for me, go for the 803D, or even a 804D. CM9 is simply not in the class with either of these. Re 302 vs 452, the difference goes far beyond added power of the 452. It's a much better amp.

[tractng]

Exsg,

Go for the best speaker you can afford first. Then the amp. Those items will last longer before needing to upgrade.

[Exsg]

Thanks for your replies.

I found a pair of second hand 601s and m2500 for sale and they are within my budget.

So should I take the plunge?

I know I will need to take my primare to the dealer to test it with the 803d3s but my gut feel is that it will be lack lustre.

In the short term which can be three to five years, should I then change the speakers first or buy the amps which could be more enjoyable with the cm9?

Also will the 601s and m2500 be a good pairing? Anything to watch out for buying second hand?

Cheers.

[tractng]

Originally Posted by Exsg

Thanks for your replies.

I found a pair of second hand 601s and m2500 for sale and they are within my budget.

So should I take the plunge?

I know I will need to take my primare to the dealer to test it with the 803d3s but my gut feel is that it will be lack lustre.

In the short term which can be three to five years, should I then change the speakers first or buy the amps which could be more enjoyable with the cm9?

Also will the 601s and m2500 be a good pairing? Anything to watch out for buying second hand?

Cheers.

I think you meant the C2500? Should be a good combo.

[krustycat]

that is a great setup, i would buy anytime, it should last forever.

[Exsg]

Close to making this decision now...

[bgiliberti]

Originally Posted by Exsg

... Anything to watch out for buying second hand?

Yes -- everything.