Bi Amp - Potential Solution to Setup Problem?

[stanleyk]

Hi all,

I recently posted saying I had an issue with higher volumes resulting in a slightly bright/harsh noise, it was suggested that this may be a lack of power from my 320bee driving my Epos. Unfortunately I cannot extend to a new amp at present (or possible near future), however, I may be able to invest £20-30 on an old amp, and was wondering whether biamping my speakers may help or would this exacerbate the problem? Was looking at older Nad amps (3020 etc) as my dad owns one and I like the sound from his. How easy would it be to biamp between an old and an older Nad amp? Any links on how to get this done correctly also useful if someone knows of a good one!

Any thoughts much appreciated

 

[d_a_n1979]

Hello

From what I know the NAD integrasted cannot be converted in to a power amp as you'd be able to do with some Arcam amps (they have a button iside which alloys you to disengage the 'pre' part of the amp).

I amy be wrong thought and I'm sure someone will come along and rectify this if I am.

With your budget there's not a lot you can do to be honest unless you aimed at saving a bit more, sell your NAD C320BEE and buy a more powerful amp.

What volume are you listening to music at and what music do you generally listen to?

I've had the NAD C320BEE amp a number of times and it's a fairly gutsy amp so I'm amazed that it's not driving your speakers as well as it should be.

Which speakers have you got?

 

[stanleyk]

I have a second hand pair of the old M12. Listening at various volumes, nothing much past about 9 oclock, often quieter as tends to be later in the evening I manage to find time to sit down and enjoy anything musical. Tend to listen to modern alternative, rock, indie, electronica, fair bit of female vocal stuff at the moment too.

Not sure I would get enough for my NAD to cover the upgrade I need, did look at selling speakers but only got offered 100 for them and that is pretty significant decrease in what I paid for them earlier in the year!

 

[d_a_n1979]

How long have you owned the NAD?

Have you ever 'cleaned' it?

What I mean is have you taken the cover off and had a nosey around inside; it'll more than likely be full of fluff and dust.

A good can of compressed air would do the trick; just make sure you unplug the amp and let it stand for a few hours before you do this!

Other than that I'm not sure why you're getting the harsh/bright noise. It could be the speakers or your source!

Are you using a CDP (if so which one) or are you using an iPod via a DAC etc?

 

[stanleyk]

Mr original concerns were with my CDP. I upgraded from a 'starter' Philips to a Marantz CD6000ose last year and did notice a definite change in the sound then. I am not sure whether I should describe the sound as harsh/bright, or whether it just lacks the drive/punch I want. It may be the upgrade of speakers has merely emphasised the sound change in CDP, which again may be a little bright/forward. I love the detail, OK Computer the other night ws something else, but Song 2 on loud lacked anything like get up and go. Female vocal cds seem to come across much better

 

[d_a_n1979]

I'd say that the CDP is the source of the sound issue then.

If you can look to demo a NAD C545BEE CDP and you'll notice a much better synergy with your NAD amp and speakers.

If possible look to buy a good 2nd hand CDP via eBay like the NAD C542 or a NAD C515BEE (if you can find one 2nd hand if not maybe look to buy a new one).

You could also consider an Arcam Alpha 8SE CDP or an Arcam DiVA CD72 (again if you can find one at a sensible price).

All the above can be found on eBay.

They'll give you much better synergy with your system as well a better, more detailed bass, midrange and smoother treble. Ideal for vocals!

 

[stanleyk]

Excellent tips, many thanks. I have been looking on there for 541i or 542, everyone seems ot want them at the moment though, keep going for more than I have been offered for my Marantz though! Maybe I'll bite the bullet soon and give one a spin.

 

[d_a_n1979]

The NAD C515BEE or the Arcam Alpha CDP mentioned would do just as well IMO