3 channel amp recommendations

MSkeezer
MSkeezer Posts: 1,183
edited March 2006 in Electronics
Well, I've had my Carver AV405 5 channel amp for a few days now, and I'm very impressed with it. The sound is definitely more open and dynamic. The amp also picks up on little details that my HK didn't.

Now what I would like to do is use the Carver to power my rear speakers. I only have 5.1 for now but I will add 2 side surrounds in the near future. I was so impressed with the Carver and it's 100 watts for the front 3 speakers, I've decided, "Why stop there?" Let's try 150 watts, or even 200 watts. What can I get for, say around $600 to $800? I understand at these prices, my only option is to buy used and I have no problem with that. Any help and suggestions would be hugely appreciated.

Thomas
Post edited by MSkeezer on
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Comments

  • janmike
    janmike Posts: 6,146
    edited March 2006
    I currently am in a similar situation. I own a Rotel RB-1080 s CH amp @ 200wpc and will do one of two things. Either add another amp (993 is 200wpc) or sell the 1080 and purchase a five channel. For me, staying with Rotel, the numbers work our the same. Personally I would like to keep the WPC consistent.
    Michael ;)
    In the beginning, all knowledge was new!
    NORTH of 60°
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  • Zen Dragon
    Zen Dragon Posts: 501
    edited March 2006
    Mskeezer.
    Not sure exactly what you are looking for. If you have a 5 ch amp and want to upgrade to a 7.1 system, why are you looking for a 3 ch amp. if you only need 2 channels the TFM series is a fine place to start. There are frequently deals to be had on old Carver amps if you watch the auction sites. A goodly bunch of other forum members also have experience/opinions with Carver amps as well. usually no shortage of opinions on the "C" word. :)
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  • MSkeezer
    MSkeezer Posts: 1,183
    edited March 2006
    Zen, I want to use the Carver I have now to power 4 surround speakers. 100 watts to each of the rear surrounds, and 50 watts to the sides. A 3 channel amp will be for my fronts. Hope that helps...
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  • Modvlar
    Modvlar Posts: 51
    edited March 2006
    Maybe look at Anthem. I've seen the 2 channel models used going for $500 mint (which I was silly enough not to buy). You may be able to spot a 3 channel version in the price range you're looking at.
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  • jruff98
    jruff98 Posts: 28
    edited March 2006
    I picked up the adcom 5503 not too long ago, no complaints so far. But I haven't had the chance to spend much time with it yet.
    Fronts: RTi150's
    Surrounds: FXi50's
    Center: CSi40
    Rears: RTi38's
    Sub: PSW450
    AVR: H/K 525
    DVD1: Samsung HD-831
    DVD2: Pioneer 563A
    HDTV: Sony Grand WEGA KF50XBR800
    Amp: Adcom 5503
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