Answered Which Amplifier?

[Hergesheimer]

Dear Forum,

I am planning on having a mid range stereo setup for my Rega P1 and my Sony Tape Deck. I have two pairs of speakers on my short list: KEF Q350 or Monitor Audio Silver 2.

But I need still some advice for the amplifier. I have three on my list, which one would you recommend?

- Marantz PM6006
- Yamaha A-S501
- Onkyo A-9150

Many thanks from Germany

 

[gibbsy]

I'm not a fan of Onkyo, even though I've owned one in the past. However the KEFs especially will like the finesse of the Marantz but will thrive on the power of the Yamaha and a lot will come down to how either of those speakers are going to integrate into the listening room. The Marantz may be fine for a small room where volume levels can be kept down, if the room is large then the Yamaha is more suited. Even so, experience has taught me that KEF speakers perform better with a good power delivery.

Ultimately you should audition any piece of equipment before you buy, either at a dealer or by a home audition as all our tastes are different. As such I recommend you look at the Rega Brio, more expensive than your choice but an amp I know that can control the KEFs and sits between the Marantz and the Yamaha power wise.

A good audition is essential.

 

[Hergesheimer]

Thanks a lot gibbsy for your detailed answer. I must listen to them before I buy. Thanks again for your advice.

 

[muljao]

I ended up with two of those marantz amps. O can't directly compare them to the others but they are certainly a good option in their price range

 

[Hergesheimer]

Thanks a lot muljao. I am also now leaning more towards the Marantz and the Yamaha.