Good 2 channel receiver to push Atoms (1 Viewer)

[Mark Robillard]

I auditioned a pair of Paradigm Atoms v.3 using my Yamaha RX-V3300 and they were a knock-out! I've ordered a pair of the new v.4's to give to my parents.

I noticed while auditioning the Atoms that they are not very efficient and took a lot out of my amp! ( I now recognize that my Monitor 11's are easy to drive.)

I also purchased a Sony STR-GX49ES (60 watt RMS) for them on ebay for $150. The seller claimed the 1992 original MSRP was $800? The receiver is absolutely mint condition, though maybe I should have done a little homework here first.

Will their Sony be enough to push the Atoms?

The only thing it will be used for is 2 channel CD playback and AM/FM. Which by the way, is it asking too much to have an antenna built in? Their $10 table-top radio picks up better than the Sony with ext wire attached!

Thanks

amp specs at docs.sony.com/release/STRGX49ES.PDF

 

[John Garcia]

It should be fine. I drove some v3s with my Marantz PM7000 (true 95x2) and I found that they didn't really benefit from having a ton of power.

 

[Garrett Lundy]

I concur with John. I had a pair of v.3's on a NAD c370 (120watt x 2), and it really was a waste of headroom. Now they are on an ancient Pioneer VSX receiver and still have plenty of headroom.

 

[PaulDA]

If you already have the receiver, it should be fine. If you become dissatisfied with it, for any reason, I would suggest an nice integrated amp from NAD or Cambridge Audio or Arcam as a future replacement. Better amplification than standard receivers and, by the time you do change, there may not be any stereo receivers left (except maybe the new one from Outlaw).

 

[mackie]

I recently got a reconditioned Denon DRA - 685 delivered to my house for less than $300. It's got a solid power supply(100w+100w) and doesn't cost a fortune. I highly recommend.

 

[Mark Robillard]

Yes, they are using the receiver now with an old pair of TEAC 3-ways with one of the 12" woofers replaced with a radio shack driver.

I now feel better about the purchase, and can't wait for them to hear the Atoms!

Though they still ask about better AM/FM reception, maybe that should be a different thread...

Thanks again!