B&w 685 s2 what amplifier?

[coupe1982]

Hi, currently running an Onkyo 9010 amplifier, Arcam irdac, and a pair of b&w 685 s2 speakers.... The thing is I'm looking to upgrade my amp, as I feel this is a weak link, but I'm at a loss as to what....
I'd appreciate any advice

Thanks

 

[Reijer]

Hello and welcome.

In what way do you think your amp is the weak link? Do you miss things in your music. Maybe an audition with your speakers at you local hifi-store would help.

 

[coupe1982]

I would've thought that the onkyo only being a £200 amp at best, there must be better sounding amps I could pair with the b&w 685s.....

 

[Esra]

Your Onkyo is a decent budget amp but as you said it is the weakest link in your system.What is it you don^t like?How much budget?Do you like to turn up?

 

[matthewpiano]

At the budget end of the market I'd usually suggest Rotel for B&Ws, but an RA-10 isn't going to be a worthwhile improvement on the Onkyo.

Two brands I have heard working very well with B&W speakers are Rega and Audiolab. I've heard the Elicit-R doing a superb job of getting the best from CM-10s, and Audiolab Monos sounding incredible driving the superb PM-1s, so it would be worth trying a Rega Elex-R and Audiolab 8200A or 8300A with your 685s. For the record, I do think this is the level of amp you need to be considering to get a substantial enough upgrade.

 

[rainsoothe]

Hi. I'd look at Arcam A19 or Marantz PM8005 for a worthwile and lasting upgrade. Maybe used if they're overbudget. Also, Rotel RA1520 used.

 

[coupe1982]

Thanks guys, when I listened to them in the ship I believe it was through a marantz pm8005.... The sound stage was huge, and the bass was alot more pronounced, better imaging.... better everything really.
I shall look into the suggested amplifiers though.
Cheers!

 

[MUSICRAFT]

Hi coupe1982

Also consider the NAD C370. A good tonal match and the ability to energise 685 S2's very effectively

All the best

Rick @ Musicraft

 

[Reijer]

Hi coupe1982

Also consider the NAD C370. A good tonal match and the ability to energise 685 S2's very effectively

All the best

Rick @ Musicraft

+1 for the NAD. Also consider TEAC AI 501DA if it's available.

 

[coupe1982]

Thanks, the nad seems to be very well priced as well...
What about an exposure 1010? I've heard good things about those...