Powering Klipsch Reference? (1 Viewer)

[MarkMac]

I have a set of Klipsch Reference 3s, and I am currently using an Onkyo TX-DS595 to power them. I am looking to add a rear center and upgrade my receiver in the not-too-distant future, and I was wondering what others have been happy with. I've been looking at the Denon 3803 and the Marantz 7200, but I'd like to hear some opinions. I'm intrigued with the idea of separates, too, but I need to watch my budget. If you've got recommendations in that regard, I'd like to hear them, too.

One note: I definitely would like to graduate to the Reference 7s in the future as well, so I'd like to keep those in mind when choosing my next power source. Thanks for you thoughts.

 

[Cam S]

Basically anything can power the Reference speakers well, including tube amps. Those speakers are VERY efficient, so power isn't all that important. Various amps WILL sometimes make the Klipsch reference speakers sound overly bright and revealing, such as any Yamaha amp as I and many others have found. I power my RB-3's and RC-3's with a Technics DA-10 receiver and they are wonderful.

 

[DanaA]

There are fans of both Denons and Marantz when matched up with Klipsch Reference speakers. Harman Kardon is often mentioned as pairing up well.

Me, I'd look at the Rotel 1055 receiver. It's list price is, if I recall, about $1299. Don't worry about the power ratings as these are misleading. Rotel is conservative in this regard. The Rotel will have plenty of power for your Reference 3's. If you want additional or better power later on, you can always use the Rotel as a pre-pro for this purpose. Unfortunately, for the double bass problem, there reportedly is a fix now for the 1066 pre-pro, but none currently available for the 1055. I'd do a check at Club Rotel for further information on all things Rotel. Just go to HTGuide.com and under forums, click on Club Rotel. Feel free to ask any questions there, as they are a friendly, well-informed crowd.

 

[James Zos]

I've got a Denon 3802 with my RB-5s and RC-3. I think it sounded a lot better than the el-cheapo Yamaha I had before that, but I got a much better sound going with seperate amps for the three front channels. I went with IRD 100 monoblocks for all three channels, at $250 each. Big, BIG improvement in sound. Monoblocks are nice because you can add them as you go, instead of shelling out a ton of cash up front for an amp you may not be satisfied with in the long run. I should add, however, that the IRDs are supposed to have a very neutral sound, which could actually be a drawback with Klipsch, because they can sound so bright. Many recommend warm sounding amps to counter balance that effect.