Which amplifier (integrated) would you recommend for Monitor Audio PL speakers


Hi,

I recently bought a "new" Monitor Audio PL100 speaker set.

I would like to know if anyone can suggest good amps to pair it with?

I currently have a Rotel RA1570 integrated amp, which is powerful enough, but maybe isn’t the best match, as I bought it for my B&W speakers (CM1 S2).

My budget is up to $1400 store price and it needs to have XLR, balanced input.

What I am currently missing compared to my older B&W setup is the depth and 3d. There is an overemphasis on treble and on the bright side.

Setup:
Monitor Audio PL100
Clear Day Double Shotgun with jumpers
Rotel RA1570
Zu Mission XLR
Korg DSD DAC100
Curious USB cables
Macbook Pro
128x128richardhk

Showing 1 response by shadorne

Not sure how you can fix the ribbon tweeter. Ribbons suffer from compression and distortion as you increase SPL. True to form for that style transducer, the ribbon appears to be severely distorting and compressing at modest levels.

http://www.soundstagenetwork.com/measurements/speakers/monitor_audio_pl100/

Worse there is a problem with the woofer. It is breaking up at 2KHz which will be clearly audible as distortion and huge distortion spikes evident on the measurements. Also the woofer is a cheap design that cannot play even modest SPL before significant compression. This speaker will only only sound good at low volumes and will sound dull and harsh when pushed. No amplifier is going to fix it.

Sorry to tell it like it is but how else can I be if any assistance (what point would there be to spend $1400 on an amp when the speaker is your problem) BTW I also don’t like B&W because of their poor design but your previous B&W speakers were much better than the PL-100.

If you can move on then you will be far happier. ATC SCM 19 would be a step up from the B&W if you are looking for a stand mount.