Topic: Rec's for receiver or integrated

[Massive Dynamic]

I spent a couple of hours checking threads on audiocircle and looking around here, but I'm still clueless on what route to take to bump up the power to my speakers. It's not that I'm really disappointed with my playback, but I think my speakers could sound better if they were driven properly. I can't seem to find a receiver or integrated that can power 4 ohm speakers, has digital inputs, is well regarded by users, and that doesn't break the bank. Am I really asking too much?

My current system is panasonic xr-25 digital receiver, Green Mountain Audio Europas, and ACI Force sub. Room is only 12 x 19. Not sure whether to go with a receiver, integrated, tube pre/SS amp, or DAC > amp. Not interested in built-in maintenance costs, so tube amps are out. 2-channel is fine. Let's say budget is around $800 (please, no laughing). 

[Nick's Picks]

Music hall Mambo?
i'm pretty sure that will drive a 4ohm load

or...
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?intatran&1194464822

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?intatran&1194460615

[twoodruff]

I spent a couple of hours checking threads on audiocircle and looking around here, but I'm still clueless on what route to take to bump up the power to my speakers. It's not that I'm really disappointed with my playback, but I think my speakers could sound better if they were driven properly. I can't seem to find a receiver or integrated that can power 4 ohm speakers, has digital inputs, is well regarded by users, and that doesn't break the bank. Am I really asking too much?

My current system is panasonic xr-25 digital receiver, Green Mountain Audio Europas, and ACI Force sub. Room is only 12 x 19. Not sure whether to go with a receiver, integrated, tube pre/SS amp, or DAC > amp. Not interested in built-in maintenance costs, so tube amps are out. 2-channel is fine. Let's say budget is around $800 (please, no laughing). 

my sony str-da3000es with Paul Speltz's zero autoformers which allows the sony to drive 4 ohm speakers, I can let them go for $750

[Frank in JC]

my sony str-da3000es with Paul Speltz's zero autoformers which allows the sony to drive 4 ohm speakers, I can let them go for $750

Autoformers on a sand amp?  Wow, your speakers must have one heck of a dip in their impedance curve!

Out of curiosity, how well have they worked for you?  I understand there's isn't much, if any, degradation in audio quality.

[twoodruff]

I have expereinced very little if any or enough to hear a difference

[Massive Dynamic]

Mmm, the Mambo just might be the thing. [heads to Audiogon...]

[Thom Joad]

I use a Primare A20 mkII 70W integrated to drive my Europa's in almost the same size room as yours.  Sounds very nice, as the Primare is extremely neutral sounding, but with plenty of power to drive the Europas. 

I was going to sell it a couple of months ago, but decided to hold onto it.  Recently I've been considering putting it back up for sale.  My asking price would definitely be in your price range.  If you are interested, let me know. - Matt 

[Sanjay]

I love my Mambo   

[carlbeck]

I say McIntosh, in fact I say it because I may be getting one in trade & I can sell it to you for about what your looking to spend if it is nice enough  The older Mac's all had different taps to drive 4 ohm & 8 ohm speakers. The amp I am trading for is a 2505, about 50wpc with Autoformers, it will include the walnut cabinet & the guy says it is mint. Anyway, here is a link for a similiar listing on Agon. even if you don't look at what I may get or I don't get it I still suggest McIntosh for an integrated. I loved mine & if it wasn't for the desire to go back to tubes I would have kept it no doubt.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1193075496

[Massive Dynamic]

Thanks for all the ideas. The Mambo seems to fill the bill, provided I can find a used one. McIntosh gear is always good, though I'd need a DAC to go with the 2505. The Primare is enticing even without the digital inputs that the Sony has. Round of Ts for making my decision harder