Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Home Theater Inexpensive Amplifier

As mentioned in another thread, I'm considering using an AVR as a pre/pro, with a separate external amplifier for 7.1 sound. My HT use will probably be 50% movies and 40% gaming, so I just need some extra headroom for the occasional loud passages/effects. I don't want/need to pay a lot extra for subtle differences in sound (*COUGH* tube amps *COUGH*). My media room will probably be around 3500 cu ft, but I don't listen to things THAT loud.

My initial thought is the Yamaha RX-V659 paired with the 7-channel Emotiva LPA-1 (125 WPC in 8 ohms, 225 WPC into 4 ohms). Since the 659 probably has enough power to drive the surrounds (possibly even the center speaker, too), I'm now trying to find a 2-channel or 3-channel amp, since I may not need all the power that the LPA-1 provides. Since the LPA-1 is $500, I'm looking for something that costs less than that; otherwise, I'd just get LPA-1. Any recs? Thanks.

I think you'll be hard pressed to find a much better option, but some people have had very good luck with the Onkyo M-282, available from Vanns for $200.

You might also consider buying a nice, used piece through Audiogon or Ebay. Frankly, I'll be surprised if a mid-priced AVR does not provide what you need all by itself. I'd get the Yamaha (or whatever) first, and then decide if you have a decibel deficiency.

I'm not nearly as knowledgeable as most around these parts regarding amplifiers but if I were a betting man I'd say that you may be hard pressed to find any decent multichannel amplifier for under $500 (new), but you can probably find something used.

Have you looked at the Outlaw 2200 Mono Blocks? A couple of folks here have them and give very good reviews.

Check out ADCOM.COM. They have great amps, that aren't very expensive. They also have a trade in program, where you send them old equipment and they give you a discount.

Also try Audiogon.com They have used audio/video equipment from many great brands.

Sweet! I just went to the ADCOM web site and they have a new refurbished product link! There is a good price on a five channel amp!

I think the only way you will get a better price would be to try a Pro Amp. I have never tried one so I have no idea what the results would be.

I think the LPA-1 would be a fine choice. Keep in mind that if you are using 7 channels in your HT, the amp delivers only 50 watts a piece to channels 6 and 7... I still think that would be enough power to drive the surround backs, so I don't see that as a problem.

I know there are some other Marantz lovers who occasionslly post on the forum, but in my mind, and for the "bang for the buck", I think you'd do well to consider this site. It sells Marantz units returned for some reason or other, some units totally new, all with a 1 year warranty, with the option of purchasing a 1 or 2 year extension on the warranty for a very reasonable addition. The new units come with a full 3 year warranty included in the price. I would highly recommend the SR 4600 (80W/ch, what I have) or the SR5600 (90W/ch), if you want to stay under $500. They come with a programmable remote that will easily replace the remotes you normally use for other stuff you use with the receiver, such as TV, DVD player, cable box, etc.

Just a thought. Again.

Dennis, if you should need more than two extra channels of amplification, the LPA-1 would be a fine choice, as would be Tom's suggestion of the Marantz for two channels. The 659 should be excellent to buy at this time and neither of the separate amplifiers mentioned as supplements offer significantly more power per channel. The key word above, however, is "need"; try(the 659)before you buy(separate amplification). You may find that the 659 is entirely adequate for your needs; if not, then you can spend more money at that time, but a problem that may never develop shouldn't be assumed.

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I don't want/need to pay a lot extra for subtle differences in sound (*COUGH* tube amps *COUGH*)

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have you *COUGH* heard *COUGH* tube amps in your system?