Cheap Amps for LSi15

[emjavidi]

I just came across a cheap pair of Lsi15s so I picked them up as something to build around. For now, I have a Sony 7.1 8ohm receiver @ 90w/channel. I would like to use the Lsi15s for the centerpiece of my home theater and be able to use them as a 2 channel stereo system for music as well.

I know that I will eventually upgrade to a much better receiver, but for now I just want to use the receiver I have and get a 4ohm amp to power the lsi15s. Is this advisable? I do not want to spend more than 300 or 400 dollars at this point (maybe even less 200?) on an amp. These are the ones I have seen that possibly fit the bill - please let me know if I am completely on the wrong track here:

2 of these: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=390030001291

or

http://www.cerwin-vega.com/amps900.php

or

http://www.pssl.com/!7i8NN9TRSShHGQQ9b20XdQ!/Crown-XLS-202D-Power-Amp-200W-8-Ohms-GOOD

or would I be better off going with lower wattage and getting something like this? -
http://nadelectronics.com/products/hifi-amplifiers/C325BEE-Stereo-Integrated-Amplifier

If there is something out there that I am unaware of, please let me know.
I am completely new at this - hopefully these are not stupid questions - I could really use the help.

Thanks,

Eric

[ben62670]

First Welcome to club Polk. Second try the search function. There is a thread nearly every day on this topic. Y"es you will want an amp.
Take care.
Ben

[Sami]

How about something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/Adcom-GFA-7400-5-Channel-Amplifier_W0QQitemZ260359572362QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ LH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item260359572362&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A570|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A131 8|301%3A0|293%3A1|294%3A50

That way you're ready when you get the rest of the speakers.

[emjavidi]

Thanks Ben - I appreciate the response. I have tried the search and have not come across the amps I listed in my original post - I was wondering if someone could comment as to which of the four amps that I listed would work the best.

Thanks,

Eric

[emjavidi]

Thanks Sami - I appreciate it. I just added that item to my ebay watch list. Do you think 150W is enough for the lsi15s?

[Sami]

Out of those, the Marantz monos. NAD is an integrated, not a power amplifier, and I'm not a fan of pro amps for home audio.

[Sami]

Thanks Sami - I appreciate it. I just added that item to my ebay watch list. Do you think 150W is enough for the lsi15s?

Should be. I had that amp all around for LSi7's but I sold it before I got my 15's. I had a similarly rated B&K AV5000 for 15's and no problems there, the Adcom should be more than adequate. It should go for less than $400, if you're lucky even below $300.

[Poee7R]

Hey Eric, welcome to CP.

First we need to make sure your Sony receiver has the pre-outs needed to use an external amp. Give us a model number or link to the online manual (if there is one).

If your receiver does not have pre-outs then you'll need to get one before getting an amp. In this case I would recommend something from HK that has the options you need with pre-outs, probably something in the $2-250 range, used or refurb.

Second, stay away from "pro" amps. Some claim to like them, but for the most part they arent designed for a home setup. Also looks like the auction for the Marantz is for only a single monoblock, not a pair, definitely contact the seller before bidding to clarify, as you will need two, one for each speaker. The Nad is an integrated amp, not meant for use in HT.

As to amps in your price range, that Adcom 7400 that Sami linked would work well. Ive had a few Adcoms and they are great amps, not to mention a great buy. You may also be able to get by on grabbing a two channel amp, maybe a 545 or 555, which would be enough to handle the 15's. But if you chose to go with a full Lsi setup, you would need to later upgrade to a 3/5 channel. Just another option within your budget.

We should have a sticky to cover this, but get some quality power behind those Lsi's and you'll be happy.


Dave

[Marty913]

Should be. I had that amp all around for LSi7's but I sold it before I got my 15's. I had a similarly rated B&K AV5000 for 15's and no problems there, the Adcom should be more than adequate. It should go for less than $400, if you're lucky even below $300.

+475.25 on everything Sami and the others have said. The pro amps are not a good idea. I had a couple of the Marantz mono's driving some 2.3tls back around 1990 so they have been around for awhile. Besides possibly being 18 years old I never felt the delivered the dynamic punch their specs indicate. Not sure of their actual current level. Anyway, the Adcom is hands down the best of what you listed. I would not be surprised to see it hit $350 - $400 but you never know.

Let us know what you get. Oh, and make sure the Sony has pre-outs as Poee7r mentioned.

[Sherardp]

If you want cheap and bang for buck Outlaw Audio M2200 Monoblocks should be considered.

[Sherardp]

If you want cheap and bang for buck Outlaw Audio M2200 Monoblocks should be considered.

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1239745256&/Outlaw-M-200's-

You know you're hung over when you quote yourself and then edit the post.