Stereo advice...

[Brett Garret]

I need to do some work to my system and I need advice as I'm not to savy on these things. I'm currently running a Clarion deadhead, Clarion 400x4 amp pushing 2 6.5s Kenwoods(up front) and my JL 10w3 sub in stealthbox. I want to put in a new amp to push my sub alone and run the current 4 channel amp to my speakers. I wanna upgrade my front speakers to components and run nice ones in the back. What would be the best cost and performance for the new amp and speakers (sizes too)?

[user1101]

Originally posted by Brett Garret:
What would be the best cost and performance for the new amp and speakers (sizes too)?

The best costing products are never the best performing products. 'Best cost' and 'best performance' are mutually exclusive. Enough semantics though....let's approach this differently. How much are you looking to spend?

It sounds like you've got a decent start with the head unit and x4 amp. That 10w3 handles 300W RMS, correct?

I know that JBL makes a solid 300W mono amp that's stable down to 1 Ohm. That might work well if you're budget-conscious and looking for something in the $200 range.

I'd be more inclined to find an amp with Class D circuitry though. Class D circuitry draws less current and produces less heat. The tradeoff used to be that the circuit's damping abilities weren't on par with their linear counterparts. But that's not the case these days. Now their transient responses are much improved, so you don't suffer from any "muddy bass" problems. The greatest benefit though, is that the reduced power dissipation creates less stress on the amplifier's internals. That means that Class D amps are much less likely to fail under prolonged, heavy loads.

I know that Xtant makes a 300W RMS model with class D circuitry. I'd take a good look at that one if you can afford the $550 or so pricetag. Although I haven't had any direct experience with Xtant amplifiers, I'll bet that it would be money well spent.

As for components up front, you'll get the same answer from most of us: MB Quarts, CDT, or Focals if you can afford them. Infinity or Audiobahn if you're more budget-conscious.

I'd move your Kenwoods to the back and spend the money you save on the amp and component speakers. The rear speakers really just fill up the soundstage anyway.

Have a pleasant day.

[ May 03, 2004, 01:38 AM: Message edited by: user1101 ]

[96firebird311]

I agree with pretty much everything user1101 said. Talking about the newer JBL line user? There's really no need to go with the newer line here. The older lines should be even cheaper now. The BP300.1 can be had for like $130 new. But the BP600.1 is only like $185. $55 extra bucks for double the power. Which would be great if you ever wanted to add another W3. I agree. Move the Kenwoods to the rear. If you're really looking to save money, I suggest the Infinity Reference line. You should be able to pick that set up for like $90-$95 brand new.