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Amp for Sonus Faber Cremona - old model

I have the upgrade bug, and am considering replacing my Simaudio i7 integrated amp. My system consists of i7 and Supernova by Simaudio, Cremona speakers (not M) and an SVS PB12 sub.

I have no real complaints other than the speakers can sound a bit forward at times, and maybe some distortion at high volumes ;). I want to try separates, and I plan on taking my time and auditioning several systems. This may involve bringing my speakers in to a shop - although some of the shops in my area will allow me to bring gear home for a trial.

I've already upgraded twice from lower power amps, and find that the Cremonas need a lot of good quality power.

I'm thinking of the P/W7 from Sim as a start. What would you suggest? I've never tried tubes but would like to do so.
fundsgon
213cobra
885 posts
 
The Cremona can punch way above it's class if powered correctly. Forget about it's 90db/w/m efficiency rating. It needs big, smooth, creamy power.

By far the best I've ever heard Cremonas was powered by a pair og McIntosh MC1201 mono blocks, 1200w each. Sensational! Too much or too big? Then work down the line to your price point, used or new: MC501s, MC402 -- you want one of the big power auto former amps, quad-differential if possible. But the MA6900, MA7000 and even the MA6600 integrateds will sound great on Cremona.

Phil
jrw40
64 posts
 
hello, currently using ayre V-5xe amp and K-5xemp pre. with original cremona's, as i type this, the sound would be the best ive ever owned. [ not that ive owned alot ] but for the first time in awhile , im just enjoying the music, and not worrying about the next upgrade.
fundsgon OP
150 posts
 
Thanks all - I've read good reviews about all of your recommendations. I'm in no rush - probably will demo this summer and purchase in the late fall. 1200w? OMG that must be otherworldly.

I think my budget will be <$10,000 for preamp / amp combo, depends on WAF.

Any other Cremona lovers care to recommend an amp/preamp combo?

Thanks again,
Mike
rugby1
27 posts
 
I have older cremonas and I use audio research vs 110 and ls26 pre amp and sounds great, was listening to Mac 402 and sounded very dry and lifeless ,not a good match in my opinion. Also with there new replacements out you should be able to great value here on the used market.
martykl
3,578 posts
 
I have Cremonas in my living room. They have seen:

ARC LS-25 w/ARC VT130SE (hi-power tube), Odyssey Stratos monos (hi-power SS), Prima Luna 7 monos (mid power tube).

Also Bel Canto 300i integrated (hi power class D SS) and Pathos Classic One integrated (mid power hybrid).

All of these combos sounded pretty good, if slightly different one to the next. Both the ARC and PL aren't the "tubiest" sounding tube amps in the world, but that side of their character was evident with this speaker. The Prima Luna might have been a stretch, but all others were comfortable at high volume - including the Pathos which was the long term choice. (That was based as much on cosmetics as sound - this is my living room system, so it doubles as furniture/sculpture.)

Bottom line: There's lots of flexibility here, but if you go with tubes make sure that you have enough power.
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