[lindt]

I have my new Pioneer Elite 45TX hooked up in a 7.1 system with a full set of Mirage Omni series speakers and an OM200 sub. My room is about 3000 cubic feet. It all sounds awesome, but some times I am wanting for a bit more power.


Here are my questions:


1. What amp can you recommend (without breaking the bank) to get some more power? I am assuming that using a stereo amp to run the front two channels is probably the best option.

2. If I do the above, will the Pioneer bridge the amp to deliver more power to the other 5 channels?


Thanks!

 

[Sorny]

1. I'd prowl Ebay for some used power amps. Your definition of breaking the bank most likely differs from mine and everyone else's. I picked up a Sunfire Cinema Grand (200Wx5) amp from Ebay for a very reasonable price. Then again, reasonable in this case was a couple hundred more than I paid for the 45. MikeRP has a 2 channel Adcom power amp (100Wx2) and says he hears no difference. YMMV.


2. I don't think it will bridge the amp, but the 45 will have increased headroom for peaks if you take a large part of the load away (if you go with a separate amp for the fronts).


Hope this helps,


Sorny

 

[lindt]

Helps alot. I will start checking Ebay. I am thinking the sunfire is probably more than I want to spend and more power than I need but I am certainly jealous!!!


Thanks again!

 

[nutt]

lindt,


I had a similar issue to yours, and decided to get a Bryston 2 channel for the fronts. Bryston makes rock-solid power amps for professional use, and they come with an unmatched 20 year warranty. I also live in Austin, so you are welcome to come by and audition it.


Getting extra power need not be expensive, and you should try audiogon in addition to ebay, as there are often good deals there.


Tim

 

[Sorny]

There is no such thing as too much power; too much is never enough.




IIWIYS (If I Were In Your Shoes), I'd look for a 125-150W per channel amp to add to the 45TX (I say that because from what I've seen, 200W per channel amps tend to be MUCH more expensive). A 125x3 to power the front L, R, C could be very nice; should really open up the sound by taking a huge load off the power supply, and shouldn't break the bank. There are also mono-block options, etc. I definitely recommend going used though. It isn't like amps get outdated...


Sorny

 

[psujohny]

I agree with Sorny. A good option would be a three channel amp(and let the pioneer run the sides/center) on the used market..heres some good choices..parasound 2003 (700.00)..rotel rb993 (700.00) acurus (500.00)..


Or maybe even something like a parasound 1206 (800) which is a 6 channel bridgeable amp..you could even bridge all 3 channels for 360 watts X 3...


For more moderately priced 5 channel amps..the H/K pa5800 (300.00) or sherwood am9080(450). or parasound 855 (400)..are all strong performers and beats most recievers amps hands down...even if rated at less watts then the reciever

 

[dsmith901]

Instead of Ebay I recommend you go to Audiogon.com. A much better selection and you have both auctions and pre-priced sales, including some good dealer discounts that give you the full warranty. I just saw an Anthem MCA-50 (225 X 5) for $800 and said to have warranty.


Dsmith