[damianlr]

Pretty much decided to pick one from these 3. I will be running KEFs LS50 Metas with it and KEF KC62 sub (or maybe something else that's that small) in the near future.

I am wondering if I am going to be fine with the C368 BluOS module one for 10x16ft room playing at low to medium volume levels. I live in the condo so I would not want to piss off neighbors (our Yorkie is sometimes already doing that)

Any recommendations or feedback? I understand some of you do not like BluOS but I am switching from Sonos environment so got to make a gradual switch for wife.

 

[damianlr]

Would anyone chime in on this?

 

[Mike in NC]

I don't have a lot of experience with it, but based on brief use a while ago, I think BluOS is quite good. And BluOS devices are also Roon endpoints, should you ever go down that rabbit hole. So I for one don't see BluOS as problematic (though it's not what I happen to have).

Does that help?

 

[damianlr]

Mike, thanks for your feedback on BluOS. I was more interested in performance info of any of these 3 amps with LS50s.

 

[Ratman]

Any of the three amps will be fine in a 10x16 room in a condo at low to medium volume levels.

 

[qirex]

Doubling the power only adds 3db to max output so you should be fine with any of them, especially once you get a sub. LS50s typically need the most power in the bass frequencies.

 

[damianlr]

So I'm testing a loaned C368 (from local dealer) at medium volume levels, at 10pm here. Volume clocks at around 75%. While I like the sound signature of the amp and BluOS a lot (fast and responsive app), I don't think this is the amp for me. It appears underpowered. If I need to get the new Bluesound Node to keep BluOS, I will, but what amp should I try next? I could potentially do C388 at 150W but I'm also in the M10 territory. And many other amps.

 

[glangford]

I'd be inclined to not dismiss any amp till I tried it with a sub. the frequency range of the KEFs is 79 hz - 28khz so it may sound a bit thin regardless of power. They are 85 db efficient as well, but the spec calls for amp power in the 40-100 wpc range.

With a sub, using Dirac with the M10 would offer the best blending of a sub and your speakers, it's not much of a power upgrade from the 368 if you feel you need more power.

 

[Mike in NC]

I repeat, I've not heard any of them. Still, I think if a manufacturer calls something their "Masters Series," they are putting some effort into it. And while I think specs matter (I am using PuriFi-based amps, e.g.), I also think amps do interact with speakers, and you need to hear it to know if it's for you.

Bottom line: I suggest you audition the M10.

P.S. Yes, subs can add a lot to the listening experience. Yet because of expense and setup complexity, they are not for everyone.

 

[Ratman]

Still, I think if a manufacturer calls something their "Masters Series," they are putting some effort into it.

Yeah.... money towards "master marketing".

 

[Mike in NC]

Yeah.... money towards "master marketing".

That is quite a cynical response. I don't think everything in audio is snake oil. Among other things, I believe that many specialty manufacturers, including NAD, have pride in their products.

 

[Ratman]

That is quite a cynical response. I don't think everything in audio is snake oil. Among other things, I believe that many specialty manufacturers, including NAD, have pride in their products.

Who said it was snake oil?
All manufacturers have pride and will use "marketing terms" and catch phrases to sell their more of the product.
Slick marketing is a specialty.

 

[damianlr]

Aside from the above, would anyone recommend Rotel integrated like the 1572 or Mk2 instead? I could get one with 120W per channel at 8ohms for about 2k and get a new Node as a streamer.

 

[Ratman]

Why not?
Can you audition one in your home as did with the C368?

 

[damianlr]

Unfortunately no, dealer can get it, but don't stock Rotel.

 

[Ratman]

Looks good though. I'm sure a Rotel owner would give a positive recommendation.

 

[postrokfan]

I'd be inclined to not dismiss any amp till I tried it with a sub. the frequency range of the KEFs is 79 hz - 28khz so it may sound a bit thin regardless of power. They are 85 db efficient as well, but the spec calls for amp power in the 40-100 wpc range.

With a sub, using Dirac with the M10 would offer the best blending of a sub and your speakers, it's not much of a power upgrade from the 368 if you feel you need more power.

+1 M10 is pricey but would be the best solution of the three NAD options discussed regarding blending of the subwoofer. If I'm not mistaken the C368 and C388 have fixed 100 Hz high pass crossovers.

 

[damianlr]

So.... I made another trip to the local dealer. Plugged in Hegel H120 and KEFs LS50 Meta. OMG! PURE BUTTER! 😊 😉

I love that combo. Ended up taking a Hegel H95 home to audition it in my space (loan). Was worried this thing does not have enough juice. Boy, was I wrong.

Depending on recording (Tidal hifi), I'm between 45 and 50 for good solid listening volume. 55-60 is too loud for this space (condo). All without a sub. Is that pushing it or is that good? They won't have another unit until fall too... (due to chip shortage). I'm thinking of buying it and pairing it with KC62 and new Bluesound Node next week or so.

Feedback, advice?

 

[damianlr]

Noone? 😉😔

 

[Ratman]

Noone? 😉😔