Amplifier choice

Rafa1478

Hi there, Id like some help choosing an amp.
I currently have an Onkyo TXNR818 powering 2 Rti A9s, 1 CSi A6, ant 2 Fxi A6.
THE Onkyo is capable of delivering 135wpc, all channels driven.
I'm currently looking at 2 amps, The Emotiva XPA5 GEN3 and the XPA-DR2.
My dilemma is this..
If I get the xpa5 I'll get 250wpc, all channels driven and 300wpc, 2 channels driven. cost is $1599.00.
If I get the XPA-DR2, I'll get 550wpc for the A9s and I can use the Onkyo for the other 3 channels. Cost is $1599 as well or $1999 for the XPA-DR3.

I'd like to hear some of your opinions please, What would you do?

PS: there is also the option of the XPA-DR3 which will give me 450wpc to power the 3 front channels but I'm afraid I'll blow the CSi A6, is this a valid concern?

F1nut

Sorry, you're not reading the specs correctly. Even though it says all channels, it's still 135 wpc, 2 channels driven.

135 W (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08%, 2 channels driven, FTC)

As for the amps, no comment.

gidrah

I use an Integra 7.9 that I use as a pre/pro and for the rear and center amps. I even Biamp the fronts with a mix of tubes and SS. The Audyssey dialed it right in. I suggest that if you use separate amps for the front and rears, that they also have attenuators/volume pots. It makes the system much more versatile on a whim.

FWIW- I love the Integra. I was using a Krell Showcase pre/pro and a 3ch B&K for the center and rears. The DAC in the Krell excelled and the Integra couldn't tickle my fancy so a added a stereo DAC and couldn't be happier.

Rafa1478

Thanks for the input.
Is there something I don’t know and should know about Emotiva? I’ve only read good things but on here I’ve seen mixed opinions. I’m confused.

cfrizz

There is a hardcore set of haters on here of anything by Emotiva. But there are members on here that use them, and are content to keep them.

Make your decision based on what you want to achieve, and can afford. If it it's an Emotiva you want, then get it and decide for yourself if it achieves your goals.

Welcome to Club Polk!

Rafa1478

Good advice

Rafa1478

I’d still like an opinion on my original post, hope someone chimes in.

tonyb

A 200 watt per channel amp for the A9's will be fine. The reason some of us don't like Emotiva amps is because of the pairing with speakers people may choose. Emo amps can be a bit bright on the top end, while RTIA speakers can also be a bit bright. Add them together and you may get fatigue listening to that combo very shortly. Some like a brighter sound, some don't. Pick which you prefer. Personally, I'd find a warmer amp to offset the brightness of the A9's.

dolbyd

I find the new gen3 Emotiva Amps to be less bright then their earlier offerings. I have been trying a Gen3 5 channel for a few weeks and it is a better fit over the gen2 I have. I will most likely keep it so I can fund my new subs too.
The new DR amps will give the 9’s all they can handle but they seem to be more then I will need. The Gen 3 is really enough. I am also running 4 A9’s in my system and the gen3 has lots of headroom.
I have also heard another forum members system with a Parasound and A9’s and I feel it was awesome. I would do a A51 Halo if money is not tight.
I say give them a shot you can return it if not happy.

Rafa1478

I’m glad I asked. That makes a lot of sense to me.
I do prefer a warmer sound but I hadn’t even considered it.
Thank you.

Rafa1478

I’m in Brampton (Toronto )

motorhead43026

You are in Canada, consider Anthem. Canadian manufacturer, great product.

Rafa1478

I’ve thought about driving across the border, it’s not far and I might save some money. I just have to find a good place in Buffalo or the Niagara area

mhardy6647

Rafa1478 wrote: »

I’ve thought about driving across the border, it’s not far and I might save some money. I just have to find a good place in Buffalo or the Niagara area

Just don't get yourself involved in any international incidents.

tonyb

DSkip wrote: »

If you go with Parasound you will likely have to go used. Unfortunately Parasound does not sell their wares in Canada.

No, but used amps can be found if you cruise local Hi-fi shops online. Usually they have inventory of trade ins, check their online websites for a drop down menu of used or demo gear.

tonyb

Rafa1478 wrote: »

I’m glad I asked. That makes a lot of sense to me.
I do prefer a warmer sound but I hadn’t even considered it.
Thank you.

Don't accuse me of making sense, I have a street rep to keep ya know.