Setup 2 separate AMP for each Rti12 ?

nhhiep
nhhiep Posts: 877
edited August 2011 in Speakers
I just bought 2 RTi12 and 2 FXi3 for $330 on CL. Now trying to set them up, but I think I run into power issue.

AVR: Denon 3806
AMP: HK Signature 2.1 100x5 WPC and HK PA5800 80x5 WPC.

Currently, I am driving the surround from the Denon, center (CSi5) with 1 channel of the HK Signature amp. 2 Rti12s bi-amped with 4 channels from the same amp. So, technically, I am pushing the 3 7" woofers with 100W and I am not getting enough bass out of them.

Here is my question, if I use the separate HK PA5800 AMP to drive 2 mids and the tweeter. Would the HK Signature put out more than 100W for the 3 7" woofers? or the amp limits to 100WPC, regardless if I use 1 channel or all channels?

another question, is it even OK to use 2 separate AMPs for each Rti12? since they won't have the common ground.

Thanks for your suggestions and tips, I am trying to get the most power out of what I've now.
Post edited by nhhiep on

Comments

  • nwohlford
    nwohlford Posts: 700
    edited August 2011
    I assume when you are talking about bi-amping that you have left the crossovers in the speakers. If so, you will most likely not see a big difference bi-amping versus just using one channel of you amp for each speaker. I definitely would not add the additional complication of two differently powered amps.

    Bi-amping (or tri-amping) is much more effective if you remove the crossovers from the speakers and crossover the signal before amplifying. This is fairly complicated and definitely an art.

    A much simpler solution is to get a higher powered two channel amp for you front speakers and use one of your current amps to the power the other three channels. You can then use the auto set-up in your AVR to balance the levels between your speakers.
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited August 2011
    ........and the gain level could be sig. different between 2 diff.amps.
  • nhhiep
    nhhiep Posts: 877
    edited August 2011
    really? so there is no difference whether I passively biamp the Rti 12 or not? I thought with my current setup right now. I have 100W to 2 mid+tweeter, and another 100W to 3 7" woofers. no?

    sadly, money is tight now, so can't buy another higher power amp