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March 6, 2008 - 5:10am
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Focal chorus 706 S
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You are never going to experience low bass extension with these loudspeakers as they are rated at 57 Hz -3dB. While you can probably improve the overall sound with a new amplifier, no amplifier is going to be able to overcome the limitations of your loudspeakers. That receiver has a subwoofer output. You could try a SVS or Hsu subwoofer to get some bass reinforcement.
I would look into a Jolida JD-1501A hybrid intergrated amp for $700 and a HSU STF-2 for $350.
Jackfish, thanks for answer,
Do you know the difference between measurements frequency range of -3dB and -6dB? For example, my Focals are 55Hz-28Hkz at -3dB, and Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 are 50Hz-28Hkz at -6dB. Whitch frequency are better for good bass at low volume listening. That is what I want: some hi-fi sistem with good & clear sound in all range (high-middle-low) at low volume (good sound just only for me, not for my neighbours!). Is these possible in entry-level systems? If you or somebody recommend some system (cca $500-$1000 for amplifier, &500-$1000 for spekers). Thank you.
The first important think is loudspeaker.
Because if you choose any easy to manage speaker it's enough a 150 euro amplifier(TProgress f2l) to get fine results.
Today is also easy to get fantastic player with a fine selection at 50 euro (Trevi 3520).
So the rest part is for loudspeakers.
I started to sell my choice with what it's better known as magneplanar ,martin logan, mission, wharfedale, tannoy and I arrived before to Usher,5 years ago, and now by 3 years to the better Audes.
Stay off course on music line no cinema line!
Audes 105 is a warranty but strongly better Audes 145.
Absolutely the best for quality price in their range.
Check it and you'll be surprised by the high level quality..
My guess is you would get somewhat better bass extension with loudspeakers rated at 55 Hz -3dB than those at 50 Hz -6dB, particularly with low volume listening. In any event, if you are willing to forgo your Focals then a lot of choices open up. However, the Focal 706S is a pretty good speaker with very good high bass, midrange and high frequency attributes. All it is lacking is a little in the lower bass. This could be made up for with a subwoofer or new full range speakers, the choice is yours. For $2000 in an amp and speakers it is certainly possible to get a system that will produce satisfying full frequency range audio. I would look at about $500-$700 for the amp and $1300-$1500 for the loudspeakers. But it would be a shame to lose your investment in the Focals. However, integrating a subwoofer into a two-channel system can sometimes be tricky.
Integrated amplifiers
NAD C325BEE
Cambridge Audio Azur 540A v2
Rotel RA-1062
Jolida JD-1501A
Music Hall A25.2
Loudspeakers
Paradigm Monitor 11
Paradigm Studio 40
Monitor Audio RS 8
NHT Four
Vandersteen 2Ce Signature II or previous versions from AudiogoN
Dali Ikon 6
Totem Sttaf
B&W 683
Joseph Audio RM7si Signature Mk2
Keep the Focals! I have tried my Denon AVR-3806 with my two channel setup just for fun; my Music Hall 25.2 blows it out of the water. I own a pair of Focal Cobalt 806S, I too wanted to hear the lower bass of a full range speaker. I tried out a SW 800S from Focal but was not impressed with it, I ended up with a Velodyne MiniVee (8" model) and was blown away with the musical bass and speed. Jackfish is right; adding a subwoofer is not always easy. When you get everything adjusted; you have a great sounding setup, great imaging, wide deep soundstage, killer midrange & full range sound. Buy up on an amp, ditch the AV receiver and add a sub if your taste requires more bass.