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Thiel CS1.5 and properly sized Aragon amp

Hey. I'm in the market to upgrade the amp for my Thiel CS1.5s. I've decided to give Aragon a try since it's a good used value (this is my auditioning). Does anyone think I need the 4004MkII or should the 2004MkII be enough power? The cost difference is irrelevant, it's strictly a matter of whether the 2004 provides enough power. I've seen people using the 4004 with the CS2 series and the 8008 with the CS3 series but I'm not conviced that the 2002 is enough for the CS1 series. I will be using Goertz MI2 and MIT 750HE cabling. I'm replacing an Adcom GFA-7000. Thanks! leo.
leoturetsky
rcprince
3,061 posts
 
Leo, if you have limited space the Aragons might be a better choice, as the early Krells are pure Class A designs (Aragons were Class A/B) and run MUCH hotter than the Aragons; fans notwithstanding, they could overheat. You could look for some fans to mount behind your units/rack--I know Audio Research makes them, and there are others available I'm sure for less from electronics supply houses. You might want to call Krell about this if you're serious about getting an older Krell, as at least in the past they were always helpful on questions about their older units. Good luck, and remember, must...not...spend!
unsound
7,315 posts
 
Leo, I'm sorry. I didn't mean that you needed to spend more money, but, that there might be nicer options at the same price point. I also think that the sound you've described from the Adcom (it mirrors my own experince with Adcom on Thiels) is more due to the sonic signature of Adcom amps and not due to a lack of muscle. I've heard 80 Watt amps with less current sound better than 200 watt Adcom with better specs. Mind you I agree Thiels like power and current.
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,299 posts
 
Bigger is not always better as you've heard. I would go with quality juice for those Thiels. I used to own them, and they do, indeed, love some serious quality wattage. Always quality over quantity. That's an audiophoolish no brainer. peace, warren
balekan
20 posts
 
I had a pair of 1.5s for 2 years running with both a Muse amplifier and a VAC PA 80/80. The Muse was ok, but oh did I love the VAC/Theil combo! The 1.5 is a great little speaker!
esteborino's avatar
esteborino
38 posts
 
Right now I am using a PS Audio Delta 100 with my 1.5's and it is a great match. Excellent bass control with a warm full bodied sound. I am using a sonic frontier's tube pre and I am very happy with the combination. Krell is a popular suggestion for Thiel but for me it's too strident, I rather have an amp that is a bit warm to add some romance into the music. The 1.5 is super neutral and revealing...so you can really tailor your sound based on electronics. People complain that Thiel can sound bright, but that's usually their source material and their electronics.
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