I am looking for a good amp for rock and metal, and I need advice. I have looked at Cambridge azur 340A and Nad C320BEE, something in that price range would be great.
KL, I would consider your speakers first. To play rock with either unit you quoted, the speaks had best be very efficient, let alont the nature of the sounds of each. If you wanna rock, it's either a big big amp or rather efficient speakers.
So what speakers do you have, and how good do you expect the kit to sound? And how loud for how long?
"I am looking for a good amp for rock and metal, and I need advice"
Reminds me of myself year back when I joined this forum.
Kenneth, I have a cambridge azur and think it sounds brilliant with rock and metal. However, the bass is the picky part, how much are you SURE you want. I bought a sub, then sold it realising there was actually too much bass, and even decreased bass to the main speakers. The cambridge's bass is quite laid back, but natural and musical, so perhaps some 3 ways speakers would suit you if you have a large room. Im lucky because my 2 way speakers are quite bassy and I have a small room.
Guys, rock does not have to be loud. I got a bad rap for being a loud guy, but it's hardest to do low conversational levels but still habe some kick for the punches in the rock song. a punch from 'jump" VH1984 is a reasonable example, in a room full of people and everybody gets a start from the punch. That's hard to do.
Midnight Oil. Diesel and Dust It is a kind of takeover song.
How bigs the room? 20x30 w/10ft ceiling?=6000ft3 or a more realistic 16x20 w/8ft ceiling?=2560ft3 'hard' room w/ bouncy walls? soft room w/puffy furniture and wall hangings? Write Down what you want, find a good store who will work with you. start listening. Be willing to adjust your goals as you listen more. Set a maximum budget and be willing to add 10% for 'wow' factor.
I have looked at the cambridge S30 bookshelf speakers.I think I go for bookshelf speakers because of the size of my room. My room is not that big, and I do not want listen to music extremely loud.
Ken, whatever price you put on the music is reasonable. Everyone works within their means and a price is a price. I really like the Psb B25 speakers, they are more a standmount than bookshelf, but really crank out. Unfortunately, their sensitivity is such that a lot of power is required. If you visit a dealer near you, these folks might have something for you in the right price range. Some real beauties can be had from out the back. I highly recommend a Rotel amp, plentiful, cheap and RnR worthy.
New, the speaks and a Rotel integrated are 1500, some pre-loved gear can be had if you shop it out a bit.
The second hand shops are fine if you can call out model #'s and know their designs and limitations. If not, then a good dealer will know and can guide you. Good luck, bud.