Rti A1 or Rti A3 for new amp

starbux48

I will be probably buying one of three amps. An Onkyo A-9555, or either the Yamaha A-S500 or A-S700 integrated amps. Onkyo also integrated. All seem good candidates. Can pick up the Onkyo @$300, the A-S700@$350, and the A-S500@$400. (Yes, found deal on the larger Yamaha less than smaller one).

On Polk product pages the A1's get slightly higher user reviews than the A3's but both got excellent critic reviews. Product page on the A3's say something about bookshelf form factor with tower sound I think.

All this going into a bedroom, I guess avg size. No high volumes needed but want to run amp/speakers at "normal" levels to classical mostly, some Internet radio from my Mac, and lossless music from the Mac (eventually passing through an HRT Dac).

Erik Tracy

Welcome to Club Polk.

For your setup will you be doing a lot of 'near field' listening? Meaning, how far back will your average listening spot be?

If your setup is for close up listening then the A1s won't give up much soundwise to the A3s.

If you are trying to 'fill' your bedroom with sound the A3s will paint a bigger sound stage.

packetjones

I do not really have any input on the A1's but own the A3's and they are very nice. I was impressed with them for sure. I would recommend a small sub to fully complement them though.

thesurfer

I think the rti1,s would be just fine, for your size room, They would be all you need, even at higher levels, they also seem to image a bit better, but thats my OP,

DeadFeat1

Can't go wrong with either. I use the RTiA1s in a 13x12 room and they do a very fine job.

cnh

Welcome to Club Polk!

I have both a pair of Rti-4s (previous version of the Rti-A1) and some Rti-A3s. It goes without saying that you get much better bass extension with the larger speaker.

I'm pretty sure the Onkyo has no sub-out not sure about the Yamaha. I'd also say that the Onkyo is probably a bit upscale from the Yamaha 500.....not as familiar with the 700 but there have been some really 'good' reviews of the Onkyo 9555. If you can get that for 300...I'd consider it. But you should listen to both manufacturers products to decide for yourself...I've heard both the Onkyo and the Yamaha 500 and definitely think the Onkyo was the better unit.

cnh