Topic: I need some more punch

[run_run_run]

I just got a new set of JBL BALBOA 30, 3 way floor speakers and they don't sound there best unless my little sony 50ish watt a channel is cranked. Even when its cranked, its not that loud. Anyway I have a set Bose 201s (to add to this 2 ch. system) on the way and need something with enough punch, to make them both loud and "good enough" at low levels. Any suggestions. I would consider cheap old/used ebay stuff to new stuff up to $500.   

[twatts (pants are so over-rated...)]

Try Audiogon.  You can do a zip code search there to find local stereo gear.  That way you can go over and listen before you buy. 

I have also had luck with Craigs List.  I found both my speakers and sub on there.

Personally, I think you ought to get an amplifier to drive your speakers.  If your Sony receiver has a amp-out, you're in luck.  Pick up an amp and rock out. 

I use a B&K ST-140.  Its a inexpensive but solid amp.  I have it match to an older Sony ES pre-amp.  Sounds pretty good to me... 

Terry

[twatts (pants are so over-rated...)]

Not sure where you live, but here is one near me...

Terry

http://greensboro.craigslist.org/ele/382530187.html

[run_run_run]

no amp out . I am thinking my route is going to be; find a cheap used integrated unit to get buy, then research and save up for something really nice.

[run_run_run]

Seems a bit no name, but it could so the trick I think?

http://cgi.ebay.com/TECHNICAL-PRO-HYBRID-1000w-INTEGRATED-AMPLIFIER-PRE-AMP_W0QQitemZ250152416354QQihZ015QQcategoryZ3280QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Thoughts/comments?

[cheshirecat]

I think you're much better off picking something used up from agon... if you don't like it, you can always put it back up on audiogon and reclaim your cost.

[som]

A quick google search didn't turn up any reviews, and you're right, it does seem a bit no-name.

I would do some searching here:

www.audiogon.com

Also, here:

http://www.audiocircle.com/circles/index.php?board=103.0

Good luck!

[Frank in JC]

It's $300 over your budget, but I would get one of these:
http://www.tweakaudio.com/EVS-2/Amp_page.html

The word been out for a while on the B&O ICEPower modules: they're amazing, so they say.  Companies like Bel Canto and Jeff Rowland are simply putting ICEPower modules in their fancy chassis and charging excessive fees.  I understand that Bel Canto uses the module completely stock, but I don't know if Rowland modifies them.  On the other hand, Ric Schultz tweaks them and still offers them at very reasonable prices. 

I've had my eye on a pair of 500W ICEPower monos for a while.  I love my tubes, but a good Class-D amp eats live recordings for breakfast!


-Frank

[Church-Audio]

I just got a new set of JBL BALBOA 30, 3 way floor speakers and they don't sound there best unless my little sony 50ish watt a channel is cranked. Even when its cranked, its not that loud. Anyway I have a set Bose 201s (to add to this 2 ch. system) on the way and need something with enough punch, to make them both loud and "good enough" at low levels. Any suggestions. I would consider cheap old/used ebay stuff to new stuff up to $500.   

My advice never buy speakers named after a bad boxing movie

[run_run_run]

I just got a new set of JBL BALBOA 30, 3 way floor speakers and they don't sound there best unless my little sony 50ish watt a channel is cranked. Even when its cranked, its not that loud. Anyway I have a set Bose 201s (to add to this 2 ch. system) on the way and need something with enough punch, to make them both loud and "good enough" at low levels. Any suggestions. I would consider cheap old/used ebay stuff to new stuff up to $500.   

My advice never buy speakers named after a bad boxing movie

LOL! +T that was a good laugh

[Church-Audio]

I just got a new set of JBL BALBOA 30, 3 way floor speakers and they don't sound there best unless my little sony 50ish watt a channel is cranked. Even when its cranked, its not that loud. Anyway I have a set Bose 201s (to add to this 2 ch. system) on the way and need something with enough punch, to make them both loud and "good enough" at low levels. Any suggestions. I would consider cheap old/used ebay stuff to new stuff up to $500.   

My advice never buy speakers named after a bad boxing movie

LOL! +T that was a good laugh

Thank you very much "I will be here all week folks"

[cheshirecat]

I just got a new set of JBL BALBOA 30, 3 way floor speakers and they don't sound there best unless my little sony 50ish watt a channel is cranked. Even when its cranked, its not that loud. Anyway I have a set Bose 201s (to add to this 2 ch. system) on the way and need something with enough punch, to make them both loud and "good enough" at low levels. Any suggestions. I would consider cheap old/used ebay stuff to new stuff up to $500.   

My advice never buy speakers named after a bad boxing movie

LOL! +T that was a good laugh

Thank you very much "I will be here all week folks"

You would think they would provide lots of 'punch'

[Nick's Picks]

IMO...
this is where a better amp comes into play.
not necessarily more watts, but better ones.  Something that operates in class A most of the time and has a nice strong current.

case in point...
my new monoblocks are only 15wpc more than my last amp, but the difference they make is astounding.  dont need my subwhoofer any more as a result because they are driving my speakers w/much more authority.

[muj]

bigger amps bigger sound = american hifi

[pfife]

IMO...
this is where a better amp comes into play.
not necessarily more watts, but better ones.  Something that operates in class A most of the time and has a nice strong current.

yeah, uh huh!  I got a Musical Fidelity A220 from A-gon for $420... I love it.  It has nice warmth, and drives my Heresy's quite nicely.