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Power amplifier advice?

I am thinking about buying a power amplifier. I want something with about 200 W per channel into 8 Ohms, in the price range up to about $2500. The models that are currently at the top of my shortlist are Rotel Rb-1582 MkII, Anthem MCA 225 Gen 2, and Schiit Wotan.

It is not possible for me to listen to these side by side, so I must base my decision on specs, reviews, and recommendations.

If anyone has experience of these amplifiers, I am eager to hear about their impressions and views.

My current speakers are a pair of old NHT 2.5, which are said to be quite power hungry, and a bit bright. I will probably upgrade speakers later, but I want to hear the NHT:s with a more powerful amp first. My current amplifier is an old HK6850 integrated, with 85 W per channel. My DAC (Denafrips Aress II) lacks volume control, so if I buy a separate power amp I will also need a preamp, but that is a later issue.

I mostly listen to hard rock and heavy metal, and I like to be able to crank it up so that I can hear the music while doing chores in the kitchen (no room for speakers there).

Regards,
Kaj

kaj
jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,920 posts
 

second the recommendation for odyssey amps for high value high sonic quality good build quality

a hegel h20 would also be a good choice they sometimes appear used under 3 grand, exceptionally clean sounding and capable amplifier

stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,710 posts
 

I would get new speakers first, then get an integrated amp.  You can easily get a 200wpc integrated for 3K or less if you don't mind used.

alucard19
389 posts
 

I currently have 2 Anthem power amps, the P2 which is the amp for my main speakers in my main 2 channel set up, and I also have the MCA225 amp for the speakers in my 2nd system and both amps sound fantastic and have never given me any problems. The best thing about these Anthem amps is you can play them all day at ear splitting levels and they do not get more than warm to the touch.They are built like tanks, very reliable and have more than enough power for any kind of speaker even ones that have hard to drive low impedance's. 

noodlyarm
151 posts
 

As said many times here, in my experience - build your system around the speakers.   It is a circular argument as to where to start, but I think the speakers make the biggest difference.   Then pick the amp, preamp, and sources.   After that, you can start dialing in and treating your room.   Lastly would be cables and other tweaks.

And don’t forget to really listen to and enjoy the music along the way.

mrdecibel
3,304 posts
 

I believe based on memory the HK 6850 has preamplifier outputs (and power amp inputs), so no need for a preamplifier immediately. A "great" amplifier with 200 wpc should work well with a wide range of speakers, including your NHT 2.5 speakers. I, too, when helping someone build a system, recommend starting with speakers, matched with the room and the listener’s taste and habits. If you are enjoying the speakers, a more powerful, "cleaner" amp will never hurt. This has been my experience. I owned at one time NHT 3.3 (the top model at the time), and they worked very well with a wide range of amplifiers and benefited with more power. However, it is more important and significant getting the speakers/room/listening seat situated for the best possible listening experience. Just my 2cents. My best, MrD.

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