We all know speakers LOVE power, so lets give it to them:
Tested on the Golden ear Triton 1.R
Emotiva
XPA 2
The power amplifier performs the simple but critical job of boosting the output signals from each channel of your stereo preamp or surround sound processor to the level necessary to drive your loudspeakers. While this may seem trivial, a really good power amp is essential to having a great audio system, because any flaws in the performance of your power amp are going to limit the performance of your entire system. Every amplifier in the new Third Generation XPA series was carefully designed to deliver superb technical performance, unsurpassed sound quality, and an exceptionally accurate and dynamic rendition of all types of music, thus ensuring that your entire system will sound its absolute best.
SPECS: • 300 watts RMS/channel; THD<0.1%; 8 Ohms; two channels driven
• 400 watts RMS/channel; THD<0.1%; 6 Ohms; two channels driven
• 490 watts RMS/channel; THD<0.1%; 4 Ohms; two channels driven
Arcam PA240
The PA240 is a high-performance power amplifier that delivers 2 channels of efficient Class G
amplifica-on. With an impressive 38W per channel, the PA240 is designed to offer the greatest flexibility and power without compromising on control.
The design of the HDA range draws upon all of Arcam’s experience as one of the UK’s most respected audio companies, to produce Arcam’s best performing range of audio products yet – using the best quality components and engineering practices, the HDA range is designed and built to give you years of listening enjoyment.
SPECS: 2 x 225W Class G amplification (8ohm, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
2 x 300W (6ohm 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
2 x 380W (4ohm 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
Anthem MCA225
To complement the NEW AVM 60 A/V Processor, Anthem introduces the new MCA 525, 325 and 225 power amplifiers. Available in 5, 3 and 2-channel configurations, these new MCA amplifiers feature more robust and efficient power and heavy-duty reliability. The new MCA Series delivers lower THD (total harmonic distortion) for more clean, pure sound and lower noise for a supremely quiet background.
Like all Anthem products the MCA 525, MCA 325 and MCA 225, designed and Crafted in Canada, are like no other amplifiers in the world: custom low noise high-power toroidal transformers; high-current bipolar output transistors; high-quality filter capacitors; advanced power supply regulators; oversized aluminum heatsinks; custom-designed dual binding posts; and patented auto-on/off circuitry.
SPECS: 2 x 225W Class G amplification (8ohm, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
2 x 320W (6ohm 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
2 x 400W (4ohm 20Hz-20kHz, 0.2% THD)
The Emotiva by far out performs the other when it comes to raw power only. 300Watts RMS at 0.1% Total harmonic distortion vs the others at less power and at 0.2% THD.
The Emotiva is SOLID like a brick! It does exactly what it is supposed to do and that is provide a lot of power to your speakers! M&K speakers will especially appreciate the power and 6 Ohm speakers will sing like never before!
The Emotiva is no joke, this is a serious piece of equipment that wont disappoint, its not bright and its not too warm, its neutral and sounds brilliant!
The Arcam is exactly what you would expect from a British manufacturer, same as their AVR's they know how to build quality products and never disappoint. Great all round performer with power on tap and a quality sound more warm than bright.
The American Anthem is the best looking but falls short on 4ohm delivery and unless you have a matching AVR it will look a bit out of place. Sound quality is amazing and easily push out 380Watts at 4ohm and make the Golden ear Triton 1.R sing like a church quire. Little bit bright but not too much.
Rand for rand and quality sound with power to drive even big 600Watt RMS Golden ear speakers, this is my pick from Extremely good to also, extremely good !
1st Emotiva
2nd Arcam
3rd Anthem
Price at tested : Retail Emotiva R 49995 Arcam R49995
Anthem R53995
On the winner:
Pros
Ungodly power reserves (beats published specs)
Bridgeable at this price?
Runs extremely cool
Superb value
Cons
Retro 1980’s Era LED’s
Makes it hard to justify more expensive amplifier purchases
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