Used amp for B&Ws
July 29, 2005
I just bought a pair of B&W DM220i speakers, and the
amplifier I'm using is a very old Sony TA-4670 V-FET. I'm considering an amp upgrade, but
I have no idea what to buy. Because I'm a student, my budget is not very high, so I'm
looking for a used amplifier. Can you give me some advice, or do I have to be more
specific?
Borris van der Swaan
It would be helpful to know what you don't like about
the Sony, what kind of room you have, your budget, and an idea of the music you like. I'm
sure I could narrow it down more with those details. But as an all-around, can't lose
recommendation I'd say something from NAD or Rotel would work well. Those brands have
widespread availability, offer excellent value new or used, and are typically reliable,
which is especially important if you're going to buy a used unit. They also make amps that
can drive real-world speakers, and though I'm not familiar with the B&W models you
cite, the brand has a reputation for craving solid amounts of power. With a later-model
NAD or Rotel, you should hear an improvement over the old Sony.
Which sub for Magnepans?
July 27, 2005
I ordered my Magnepans yesterday (MMGW and MMGC). Now what
to buy for the subwoofer? I like the Hsu STF-2 or Outlaw LFM-1. Please help.
Tony Becker
Both are similar products. The Outlaw has a larger
woofer (12" vs. 10") and has a slightly beefier cabinet, so it may have a slight
advantage with absolute output. It also has a bit more panache in the cosmetics department
with the gloss top panel. But the Outlaw also carries a higher list price ($579 vs. $399).
A better comparison to the Outlaw would be the Hsu STF-3 at $599. That unit compares
favorably with the Outlaw across the board with its larger cabinet and woofer. Since Dr.
Hsu helped with the design of the Outlaw subwoofer, the differences in performance would
likely be negligible. Dr. Hsu knows subwoofers, and both products show the skill of this
talented designer. Either way -- STF-3 or LFM-1 -- you can't lose.
Filling speakers with sand?
July 25, 2005
My speakers have a compartment that is supposed to be
filled with sand. Can you tell me why this would be important? I don't mind doing it, but
I fail to see the reasoning.
Mark
Sand can be used to damp or reduce cabinet
resonance/vibration. Its effect is said to be much like having thicker cabinet panels --
only in this case you add the mass at home instead of the manufacturer building thicker,
heavier cabinets at the factory. Lead shot can also be used in place of sand, in most
instances. The only other reason I can think to add sand would be to keep steady a
top-heavy speaker. Adding mass to the bass of a floorstanding speaker can accomplish this.
As to whether the addition of sand will yield an audible improvement, there's only one way
to find out -- head down to your local home-improvement store and load up some sand. They
sell clean, filtered sand that will work perfectly for your intended use.
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