Thinking of purchasing Arcam Amp

[admin_exported]

Just starting out on this audiophilic experience. I'm only, relatively, young and have just bought a pair of KEF iQ5's brand new, got a good deal on them. £200 including QED speaker cables and airloc plugs. Just want to get a new amp now.

Wondering basically, should I get an A80, or A70 or even an A90. Also where to get them from really.

 

[Anonymous]

I had a set of your speaker for a month. I biamped them with an Arcam Alpha 8R and Alpha 8P power amp. I bought the without audition ,which I shouldnt have, to replace my B&W 601s2. The sound was very laid back and made everything I listened to sound bland, I sold them at a loss. I dont think theyre bad speakers at all. Just not good with my Arcams.

Hopefully someone hear can give you advice on the Arcams you mentioned as they may not be as laid back as the Alpha range, but in my experience something a bit more neutral or lean sounding may sound better with your KEFs.

From what ive heard on these forums the Cambridge Audio amps may well be worth a listen.

 

[batonwielder]

Well, you are already on the right track, and that's a great bargain.

Does it have to be Arcam? They are fine amplifiers and will sound very well with your speakers, but don't limit yourself to just one brand.

I would go for the A90 if given no other choice, however.

 

[plastic penguin]

hudsonroe:

Just starting out on this audiophilic experience. I'm only, relatively, young and have just bought a pair of KEF iQ5's brand new, got a good deal on them. £200 including QED speaker cables and airloc plugs. Just want to get a new amp now.

Wondering basically, should I get an A80, or A70 or even an A90. Also where to get them from really.

Not heard the A90 so can't really advise on that amp. Personally I would go with A80 if you're taken with Arcam. The reason why I've chosen the 80 over the A70 is because it was produced as a sort of compromise amp: it only came into being when the A65 and A80 was defunct. And if you hear it you'll understand what I mean.

But don't limit yourself to one make: there are others like Nad 352, Marantz SA 7001 that would do just as well, both in sonic terms and budget.

 

[Anonymous]

I would look at a good used Musical Fidelity A5 integrated amp ... if you are patient, you will find a good one on ebay or on the net