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November 13, 2016 - 3:38pm
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Next component for budget system - KEF LS50s?
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Sounds like more of a desktop system - is space an issue for you? If so, check out these recommendations on sister site Audiostream:
http://www.audiostream.com/content/greatest-bits-desktop-speakers
I love the LS50 speakers but you aren't going to have enough power to drive them properly with the NAD D 3020 at 30W. I had a 50w amp driving a similar speaker in the Revel Performa3 M105 and what happened is when you get to even modest volume levels, you will find the sound will thin.
The issue is the Kefs are way less efficient than the Polk. The SPL for the Kefs is 85dB vs 89dB on the Polks. This will make a significant difference in volume output. I know the minimum rating for the Kefs is 25w and you won't damage them via lack of power but the sound will be lacking and you will really be pushing that little amp very hard. If you want the Kefs, you would probably want to look for an integrated with a minimum power level of 75w to begin driving them well and get the most out of them. 100w would be better which is what I am using to drive a similarly inefficient speaker (Revel Performa3 M105).
If you want to upgrade speakers which I think would be nice (I find those Polks a bit grainy), a nice speaker choice that would be much more efficient would be the Monitor Audio Silver 2s. I think they are $1049 so much closer to your budget. Compared to the Kefs at 85dB, the Monitor Audio's have an SPL of 88dB and are neutral and surprisingly detailed. I have hear an NAD D 3020 driving them and feel like it is a good match.
Alternatively, you could look at a different subwoofer as well. That Polk is ported and I find ported subs lead to muddy sound. An NHT or SVS sealed sub would give you much cleaner, more refined bass. Particularly on jazz, it will make a very big difference.
bierfeldt, Thanks so much for the thoughtful and informative reply! I'll look at the Monitor Audio's. I too find the Polk sub muddy, so I'll definitely look into sealed sub's. I hadn't considered that route. I won't be surprised if it turns out to be my next move.
Thanks again!
I think you would get better overall sound with the KEF Q500 speakers than with the LS50. they are excellent speakers, and you can get them at KEF DIRECT now for $350 each (normal price $550 each). They can be driven well by most amplifiers, which is not true of the LS50, and have enough bass that a sub might not be needed.
They are easier to drive and will sound great with most amplifiers. The NAD D3020 might not be the best way to go, however. I suggest that you look at the Music Hall 15.3 amplifier.
The Polk PSW10 is a joke; it is not much of a subwoofer. Don't bother spending your money on it. The PSW505 is fair, but really good subs start at $700 and up.
How about the LS50 Wireless?