Suitable amplifier for Dynaudio Contour 3.3?


Hi Everyone,

I am looking for some feedback regarding amplifier choices for my Dynaudio Contour 3.3s. I currently use the Levinson 334 which is certainly suitable for driving the speakers, but was wondering what other amplifiers should be considered. Price is in the 4-5K range. Since synergy is important, I have listed components below relative to 2-channel.

Current system (for 2-channel):
Levinson 334 amp
Theta Casablanca II w/Extreme DAC
Ayre D-1x CD/DVD
Nordost Valhalla digital and analog cables.
Synergistic Resolution Reference speaker cables.

Thanks in advance.
meri5862
I have used a Krell KSA 200s (circa 1993) with both the Contour 3.3's and the Confidence C-5's. I use a tube (Ah!) CD player and the Krell is just wonderful with both speakers. The high end is sweet and pure coupled with a powerful decisive low end. You can buy a used Krell KSA 200s for about $2600-2900 (new 7500). I could not be happier with my setup. This system is very satisfying at low volume levels too.
In the past I always use the Plinius with the Dyns. They are a synergistic match. I would start with the 8200integrated.
I'll have to agree with Rossta, that Plinius/Dynaudio would be fantastic match but ONLY with superb pre-amplification! Mr. Meri didn't mention what kind of pre-amp will be using. Unless, connectting the Ayre directly into the amp??
I have been using a Musical fidelity A3 CR pre and power amp combination, and the Rotel RB 1090. These drive the Contours excellently. Front end is the Sony SCD-1. I also employ a REL stadium sub. The sound is robust and very natural, and unfatigueing. Cables are Ecosse, and Nordost.
I'm using an FPB 200 on my Dyn 3.0's,very fast and dynamic combo. A Krell fpb mono block I imagine would be awesome with your 3.3's.
I have heard the 3.3s on the 334 and on FPB series Krell and find the Krell to be a much better match than for the Dynaudios than the ML. It's more dynamic, spacious, in other words, more realistic. The Plinius and Pass would also be some good recomendations.
You need lots of power to make the 3.3's sing. I have a Plinius SA250 Mk.IV amp for my 3.3's. It pumps 250 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms, 450 Watts per channel into 4 Ohms. 900 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms in bridged and true balanced mono modes. Also the Pass Labs X350 would be another excellent choice.
Might I suggest the David Berning ZH-270; this amplifier has superb tonality, drive and outstanding reliability. It is 70W x 2 into 8ohms and will drive difficult loads with ease, it does not possess the soft tubey characteristics of many tube amps. This a different, cutting-edge design that is also very reliable and effecient. It is a no hassle tube amp - auto bias, 20 year tube life and advanced switching power supply to name a few virtues.

The limitation would only be if your room is very large, then more power may be in order.

There are many threads here on Audiogon about this very special amplifier.

Best Regards,
Chris