Do I need a high watt (high price) amplifier to pair with my B&W XT4s or could I use a smaller watt, although still high quality one?

[ClydeFrog]

My current setup's a Marantz 6002 CD, older high watt Harman Kardon stereo amplifier (highly rated in the past) and B&W XT4's.

I want to update the amplifer, the obvious choice being the Roksan Kandy K2, but I was wondering if the less expensive Marantz PM6002 to make a pair with the CD would be a good match.

Where I live, the sales people always equate expense with quality and create FUD where a higher commission is involved.

They would really prefer customers not to subscribe to What Hifi and buy the Krell system that buys them a new boat.

 

[Lost Angeles]

I quote from the mag "Love high volumes, deliver sound with composure".
Might need the Kandy up em. Someone may disagree.

 

[Anonymous]

No reason why the NAD C352 won't do the job very nicely.

 

[the record spot]

No reason also why your HK won't do the same; which model is it? HK 680 or 6550 would be more than capable if it's one of those.

HK680 review...

http://www.tnt-audio.com/ampli/hk680_e.html

 

[ClydeFrog]

I've the HK 970. What do you guys think of the Cambridge 540.

 

[SteveR750]

ClydeFrog:I've the HK 970. What do you guys think of the Cambridge 540.

No!

Agree the NAD 352 355 etc would be more than capable, though you just know that you really want a Kandy

 

[matthewpiano]

First of all, forget the Marantz. Whislt the 6002 CD player is excellent I thought the amp was very average.

The Cambridge 540A is certainly better but I'd be looking at the 650A as a minimum, and preferably the 740A, although I'm not at all sure what the synergy between CA and B&W would be like. You'd have to try it to see!

The NAD suggestion is an excellent one and the synergy should be excellent.

Personally I'd be booking an audition of NAD C355BEE and the Roksan K2 because I think they are probably the best options in terms of synergy.

 

[the record spot]

If you can find one, try and lay hands on a HK680 or 6550, the former having a bit more power - good models and very well rated about ten years or so back. Seriously worth finding and would more than give the present crop a run for their money.

The new Cambridge 650A look srather impressive too however; I'll be interested to know if CA have tamed the brightness that seemed to attract some light criticism previously. For £350, this could be a great performer.

 

[ClydeFrog]

Thanks everyone for the feedback.