On Mon, 16 May 2005 12:16:24 -0400, "Robert Morein"
wrote:

Coincidentally, there is a general discussion about amplifiers under "Any
Opinions on an Adcom".

I don't have direct experience with the the original VR-4, but I have helped
a friend of mine select an amp for the current VR-4. Unfortunately, many
"bright" amplifiers synergize poorly with these speakers, while "smooth"
amplifiers provide inadequate definition.

Thanks for the observation.......

I'm not sure the Andromeda brought out the best in the VR-4's, but I
think it was close. I've had a devil of a time with bass control, and
the system never had the impact in the low mid's that I crave. I
really like the punch factor and dynamics, as I believe it brings more
realism to the music. For some reason, the Andromeda lacked in this
department. Interestingly, you'd think if all amps aspired towards
accuracy, they'd all sound identical!!

If tight woofer control is a priority, this mandates either a large bipolar
amp, or a Hafler Transnova MOSFET design. However, such a choice may result
in concommitant nastiness in the lower treble. MOSFET designs work well in
this range. You might consider biamping -- use of a commercial bipolar amp
on the bottom, and a MOSFET choice up top. Hafler P-series amps are cheap
and extremely good. You could start with one full range. If you find the
combination has low treble harshness, you could add a conventional MOSFET
amp in a biamp configuration.

I see that Hafler makes professional amps with the Transnova
circuitry, such as the 2600 and 2300. Should these be considered? I
was told that MOSFET amps are difficult to get repaired, particularly
when it comes to component availability, so is this a concern with the
Hafler products?

The high end of sound reinforcement can be quite rewarding. Beware of the
cheaper stuff. Although I've never heard a modern Crown amp, I would not be
hostile to it. But your speakers are hard to match to.

As for whether a top-notch sound reinforcement amp is the equal of a Krell,
I, too, wonder. The differences are undoubtedly fine. Synergy is probably
more relevant than universal optimality. For this reason, I would beware of
any choice of new technology, such as a switching amp, that you cannot
audition with the speakers.

I see where Jeff Rowland has embraced the digital ICEpower technology,
along with some other notable high-end manufacturers. Furthermore,
I've read some encouraging reviews about the technology. B&O
integrated this technology into their flagship speaker system, and
Rowland has always been technically saavy, so I have to wonder if
future amplifier technology will move towards this digital
architecture.

Thanks very much for the input!!