Biggest gain

[tosh]

Hi, would I get a bigger performance increase by swapping my speakers for a pair of Focal Chorus 714v(91db) to bring the best out of the Arcam or by swapping to a more powerful amp to make the Kefs sing?

 

[matthewpiano]

Hard to say, but Focals match Arcam extremely well so I think the 714v would really get the best out of your existing amp.

What specific improvements are you looking for in terms of the sound?

 

[tosh]

I listen mostly to vocal,acoustic,americana etc. Also late night low volume listening.

 

[plastic penguin]

I listen mostly to vocal,acoustic,americana etc. Also late night low volume listening.

As a former owner of the A65+ I listened to the original IQ5s and wasn't overly impressed. Yes the Focals are a better match, but do listen to a pair of Monitor Audio or even PMC DB1is. Both these are as good a match with Arcam I've heard.

 

[tosh]

Would you say the Arcam is dynamic enough for the Focals as I'm looking at a part ex on a mint pair. Also, is it true that floorstanders are better suited for low volume listening?

 

[plastic penguin]

Would you say the Arcam is dynamic enough for the Focals as I'm looking at a part ex on a mint pair. Also, is it true that floorstanders are better suited for low volume listening?

TBVH, i'd say 'no'. But what it lacks with outight dynamics it makes for with imaging. The A65+ is one of the best sub-£1000 integrateds I've heard in this particular area.

In respect of low volumes, it's true that floorstanders, generally speaking, are better, which is why, if possible, I'll always recommend them with A65 - it's great at idle - medium levels, beyond that the 40 watts start to struggle.