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RE: Setting up a new 2 channel system based on available equipment

Posted by finnman500@hotmail.com (S) on March 24, 2010 at 10:12:54

In Reply to: Setting up a new 2 channel system based on available equipment posted by Audiophonix on March 24, 2010 at 05:35:17:

I see this type of posting here and at Audio Circle all the time. I usually don't respond as I feel asking others to choose components for you exhibits poor judgment and/or laziness on your part. Even if you are fortunate enough to find someone out there who is using the amplifier and speakers of your choice, they are not going to perform the same in your listening space.
Yes, I realize the purpose of these forums is to share knowledge and experience and God knows none of us have the time or money to try all that is out there in audio land.
For what it is worth, this is how I would go about starting from scratch building a 2 channel system.

First: I would decide on a power amp purely based on it's sound (sonic signature) Since there is no such thing as 'too much power' I would lean towards more power than you feel you may require. Music is much more dynamic than most realize and in this case 'more IS more' Power amplifiers pushed to the edge of clipping will do far more damage than too much 'clean power'and will sound like hell as well. Most loudspeakers will handle twice their rated power input in short transients if the power is clean.

Second: Match this chosen amp with a pair of loudspeakers that can be easily driven by your choice of amplifier. Obviously, you will also have to enjoy the overall tonal qualities of the loudspeaker in question as well. Again, when it comes to dynamics, higher sensitivity speakers will serve you better and generally the larger the box, the higher the efficiency. Your choice in going with floor-standers would be my first choice here as well.

Third: Now that you have your back-end together,a pre-amp(if required), digital source and interconnect choices are relatively easy and simply a matter of trial and error and budget considerations, although other opinions and reviews are most helpful here. Synergy does exist and some interconnects can compensate in very positive ways and reduce unwanted sonics.

Fourth: Above all else, it is the space between YOUR EARS you are trying to please so do whatever makes you happy. Anything I or anyone else says is irrelevant as you are the one laying out the hard cash and you are the one that will be living with your choices.
Proceed slowly, shop around for deals and explore the used loudspeaker market as new loudspeakers sound pretty crappy for the first 500 hours. All my gear is second hand with the exception of interconnects, loudspeaker cables and power cords and I don't regret the money I saved or my choices.
If you are already sold on the Gryphon Diablo, I would match it with the Proac Studio 140 Mk IIs. There are less expensive ways to go of course. (eg: Reference 3A- Grand Veenas are outstanding for the money)
Listen to that little voice inside your head and go with your gut feelings. They are usually on the money.

Happy hunting and good luck. Cheers.

J.
PS: Sorry about the long post but perhaps it is food for thought or at
the very least gave you time for thought.

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Atma-Sphere Music Systems, Inc.

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