Receiver vs. Amp (1 Viewer)

[pt6776]

Dollar for dollar is it not true that you can get better power from an low end pro amp then a similar priced receiver? Is there something I am missing that people pay around $1000 for a receiver that does not deliver the same quality as a similar amp. I have used many receiver types (Harmon Kardon AVR 80, THX cert, various Sony, Denon, Pioneer, Onkyo, etc.) most not rated above 100 w per channel. For similar prices used I was able to pick up a mackie 1400 amp that I understand to be a cheap amp, but the power was nice. Looking into low end DJ/Pro gear seems to be a better way to go, but I haven't really used any of these products. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Alon Goldberg]

Well, it depends..

The Makie sounds great on paper (1400 watts @ 4 ohm bridged), but don't be surprised if it detonates into a fireball after a couple of years. You get what you pay for with a $250 used amp.

On a $1,000 budget, it will be tough to find yourself a pre-pro with a reasonable feature set, plus a 5-channel or 7-channel poweramp that can surpass a capable receiver. The Mackie can certainly be used as a stereo poweramp, however you are still missing the centre and surrounds channels for amplication.

Some questions for you:

Are you building a 2-channel system, or a surround home theater?
What speakers are you driving?
What features do you require for video switching?
Are you looking for power or for musicality?
What are your sources?

 

[JohnRice]

Besides, DJ gear is designed for high volume and physical durability, not necessarily sound quality. It depends on what "good" is to you.

 

[pt6776]

Thanks for the input. I guess I am more of a power than quality guy. I prefer 2 Cerwin Vega VS12's(mid/highs nothing special) to my BOSE surround sound(for music anyway). I like flexibility, but most features I do not care for. My video equipment is all old, so those aren't issues. I do disagree w/ you get what you pay for. Price and quality are NOT always hand in hand. I have seen and used some (not my personal) 5 figure equipment that I was not impressed with. I think SQ is very overrated and have found in many cases the difference is not noticeable unless you are dealing with cheap products. I have used HCCA amps(car audio) against amps that are considered much superior(and more expensive) and all involved were more impressed by the power of 2100's. For someone in my situation, what would be a good recommendation with budget in mind. I prefer word of mouth to statistics and ratings.

 

[pt6776]

I am looking to start new. I am considering used to save money. I know a guy that is selling a Bose L1 for 1300, but the sub did match the highs for my taste. I have also considered powered cabinets that might save me in the long run. I plan to purchase a CD+G player and a mic or 2 as well, but dont have a clue on what to look for. I want something simple for personnel use, but not something I will be unsatisfied with and replace anyhow. I mentioned the Mackie 1400 earlier b/c a friend offered me that, his crown 250, 2 mackie c300 (12), crossover, and 10 space rack for $1000. I am considering that, but I know I would want to add spkrs to that. Any suggestions appreciated.

 

[chuckg]

Here's my 20 millidollars worth:

Bose is seriously overpriced, mid-to-low quality.

Having a bunch of different amps cobbled together might look cool, and increase the "total wattage" figure, but you still need a pre-processor to switch inputs, control volume, and do all the other little things like, oh, decode digital audio. And, you still need speakers.

When you say "save money" you haven't really given us any idea what budget you have in mind. For $1000 I could get a decent little HTiB and make most folks happy. For $1000 I could get a couple of JBL theater speaker cabinets that would blow the drywall off your house with a 100 watt amp. For $1000 I could get a receiver that, when paired with appropriate speakers, would be good enough and loud enough for 99% of all HT users.

The bottom line is, if it makes you happy, then go for it!