Help with selecting a preamp!

[1jdmsir]

My current setup is a H/K 3490 (2X120) powering Polk RTi A9's and a Polk DSWmicropro 4000 subwoofer. My question is do you think I can benefit from incorporating a preamplifier to power my A9's I want to make sure I'm getting the most out of these towers. Right now it sounds incredible compared to my old shelf style unit but is the cost of a preamp worth its benefit. By the way 90% of my setups usage is for music. Also if anyone could suggest a specific preamp that might suit my needs that would be great!

Thanks!

[kawizx9r]

Welcome to Club Polk!

I'm already selling my current preamp, but I'm not going to dump my gear on you but take a listen at the some of the suggestions made.

Are you looking for a solid state or tube preamp?

What's your budget like?

-Freddy

Edit: After re-reading your post, are you looking for an AMP instead? You said something to power your speakers, so I assume you meant a power amplifier and not a preamplifier.

[thsmith]

I think for the money you would have to spend to improve on what you have would not be worth it.

Enjoy what you have or be prepared for a long dark journey down the rabbit hole

[1jdmsir]

I'm quite new at this as this is the first quality stereo I'm putting together. I guess I must be confused about the difference between a preamp and an amplifier? I just want to make sure I'm getting the most out of my A9's.

I've also been reading through my stereo receiver manual and there is a section in there about switching to 4 ohms which would increase the output to 150 Watts x 2, both channels driven at full power at 4 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz, <0.2% THD; 300 watts total. How can I make sure I'm getting the maximum out of my HK 3490 receiver, do ohms effect quality?

Thanks for everyone's help!
1jdmsir

[Conradicles]

Welcome to CP, and here is a thread I posted a while back with some good info.
http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=83191

While the 3490 is a great stereo receiver (I had one and loved it), you should look at getting a power amp for those A9's. Enjoy!

[danz1906]

Welcome to the Club!

[danz1906]

Here's a preamp at a good price:

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatube&1262293595&/Marsh-Sound-Design-P-2000t-hyb