2. amps-preamps
  3. 137358-108941

Amp upgrades under $3K for bookshelf system

Hello all,

I am looking for suggestions given the mind blowing number of options available. I currently own a Onkyo TX-RN626 Home Theater amp that I am looking to upgrade. Its been fine for general TV surround sound but I am now only looking to power Sonus Faber Venere 2.0 Bookshelves with a Energy (also could be upgraded/removed) powered sub. I have a Technics 1200MK2 Turn Table for Jazz Vinyl primarily. I really want something that can give me great sound at relatively low levels in about 1000 sq ft of general listening space. Living room/open kitchen with wood floors. I am looking to stay under $3k but have some room if necessary (used suggestions are great). I don't have a phono preamp but would certainly factor that in as part of the system. Thanks in advance.
telemarcer
soix
8,729 posts
 
What aspects of sound reproduction are most important to you?
telemarcer OP
85 posts
 
caphill I greatly appreciate the suggestion. I will check out the Osiris
donvito101
278 posts
 
This Parasound should fit the bill. It includes a phono preamp!  BTW,are you sure about the 1000 SQ feet?
https://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=PAHAHINT6
telemarcer OP
85 posts
 
Thanks again for another option I had never considered. Re Soix; I have an open space with a living room, dining room and kitchen that I want to be able to hear all nuances of my favorite jazz vinyl. Stan Getz, Sonny Rollins, Billy Holiday, Al Hibbler, Joao Gilberto. Most of what I listen to are live recordings with varied sound quality. I have my speakers positioned where I currently get a decent sound stage (not great) when sitting in "my spot". I was hoping for an amp that could give great live sound in that spot but also fill the rest of the space with total sound with a relatively low volume (if that is possible). I have a family which enjoys my collection but doesn't want it cranked. I was hoping a hi power amp (200 WPC?) could give me that sound? I notice with my system that I hear the highs and lows fine but miss the subtle mid layers at low volume unless I am sitting in just the right place. Not at the dinner table or when cooking.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,572 posts
 
Take a look at the Kinki Studio EX-M1. I recently got one and it's exceptional at low level listening, has wonderful soundstaging that's just as detailed and robust at the sides as the center, and has over 215 W per side. It's the most resolving amp I've heard that I can afford.

All the best,
Nonoise
More to discover