Monitor Audio Silver 8 - Power Handling


I have a question regarding the power handling of the Silver 8s.  I am using a Emotiva EPA-2 Get 2 amp which is rated 300w/ch for 8ohm and 500w/ch 4ohm.  The Silver 8s indicate power handling of up to 200 watts...am I in danger of putting too much power through to them?  I've had them now for about 9 months with no issues but certainly don't want to create a problem. 

Thanks

Jason
jdekehoe

Showing 6 responses by rotarius

How loud do you play your music?  How far is your listening position? Maybe you can get a decibel meter and find out?  You are likely only using a few watts with 90 db speakers at a level that won't harm your hearing (below 85 db).  
Given that you are only six feet away, I doubt you exceed 10-15 watts before it makes you uncomfortable.  So, no worries, a lot of people think they need the high wattage when they don't.  
Jason, what source and preamp are you using?  I think you want to look at those if you lack some resolution before you try swapping amps. 
From what I have read, the Emotiva stuff is good value for money but may not have the most refined sound.  With those speakers, I would add some tubes to the mix, start with a tube preamp and go from there.
@jdekehoe, The Parasound A21 will be overkill, A23 will work just fine and you can buy a tube preamp with the money left over.  You can also look for a used Belles, Bryston or B&K power amp, good stuff.  For preamps, I am partial to 6sn7 based ones.  Btw, I listen to classical primarily as well.
jdekehoe, the A21 is overkill because of the required wattage.  You keep bringing up resolution and detail, sonic differences in good quality SS amps are far less than differences in preamps and sources.  There is a good chance you may not hear any difference between the A23 and A21 with your Emotiva preamp.  Tube amps are a different story. Your preamp choice will make or break your system.