2. amps-preamps
  3. 1263364444

amp/preamp to complement Vienna Acoustics?

Hi guys, I would like some advice about pairing a suitable preamp/amp (or integrated) with vienna acoustics beethoven baby grand speakers. They have a 4 ohm nominal impedance and a claimed sensitivity of 91db. They are also warm sounding speakers that can obscure some detail.(allegedely, I have only listened briefly with cheap amplification) I am an admitted neophyte when it comes to home audio and though I'm far from set on these speakers I would like some suggestions as to what would complement them well so I can formulate an initial system plan and start trolling audiogon for some deals. Thanks, Any help/suggestions are appreciated. * Cost is a large factor.
nile49
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knownothing
1,536 posts
 
Hmmm, Bel Canto, interesting - think it might sound great. My friend has the beethoven grands and a Primare integrated, I think it is the A31. Really wonderful combination. Primare delivers a ton of current... And weights a ton.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Primare is another amp used frequently with the smaller Vienna Acoustics. . . not surprisingly, Primare used to be imported by Sumiko, still importing Vienna in the US. I have heard Baby Grands driven by Primare and the system was quite good, if just slightly tippy in the treble, in spite of the extra Primare poundage (grins!)
spbarney
2 posts
 
I have my Baby Grands set up with an old Linn LK2 (upgraded to the LK280) amp and a Linn Wakonda preamp, and this works well together. Linn rates their amps conservatively - mine is 80 watts at 8 ohms (of course the VA's are 4 ohm) so I suspect it is close to 160 watts at 4 ohms. Also have a REL Storm III in the mix. For the music I listen to (Classical, Jazz, and Acoustic), it sounds great...even with difficult room acoustics (20x20x19 with hardwood floors).
soulbrotherjoachim
4 posts
 
I recently bought Baby Grants and drive them with a Jeff Rowland Concentra I. If you want bass control you need some power and therefore similar to the other posters I suggest a powerful solid state amp.
Beside Jeff Rowland I would assume Mark Levinson and Ayre as a proper fit.
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