pairing a budget amp with B&W 603s1

[admin_exported]

hello, i have an 11 years old Onkyo tx-8411 (100w) stereo receiver which i would like to replace. it is paired with B&W 603s1 speakers which i won't be replacing for the next several years (i would like to...), and a cheap LG DVD player, i use it quit a lot for: music, radio and watching movies. my budget is tight and from reading reviews and some forums I've narrowed the list to: a. Cambridge audio 540A2 b. rotel ra-04 i've listened to both amps (in a show room) but not with my speakers... i'd like to get your opinion on these amps paired with my speakers. does anyone think that buying the Azur 540R (home theater) is a good option, since it costs 50 pounds less? anothr option is a used audiolab 8000A thanks for your help

 

[d_a_n1979]

The Rotel RA-04 will give you a better sound compared to the C/A amp IMO

The Rotel has bags of power and will make your B&W's sing well whereas the C/A amp is a bit clinical and 'non-hifi' sounding

You could also take a look at a NAD C320BEE amp (new or 2nd hand via ebay). Also worth copnsidering would be a NAD C32 2nd hand or brand new (£270 currenty on Superfi.co.uk and hell of alot better compared to the Rotel RA-04, again IMO). The NAD C350 or C370 integrated amps 2nd hane via Ebay would be good, very meaty with plenty opf power in reserve.

I think you will be able to get more for your money going via the 2nd hand route rather then brand new.