Streaming amp advice

OverDrive · 11 Sep 2018 at 09:47

I'm hoping I can get some advice.

My current audio setup is a Monitor Audio A100 hooked up to a pair of B&W 685 S2 speakers.

I mainly use AirPlay and the optical input from my PC, also occasionally DLNA to steam FLAC files from my NAS.

The A100 sound quality is fantastic and very composed. However I have recently been feeling that I would like a little more bass with some music - nothing excessive though. I was wondering whether replacing the A100 with an amplifier that has dedicated bass and treble controls would be a way forward?

I was looking at the Yamaha R-N402D and R-N602D. These are classed as a network receivers rather than amplifiers, however from what I can see, they are both. They also have all the connectivity of the A100 with the addition of Bluetooth (with AAC support), a radio (FM, DAB and internet) and quite a few other features.

My questions are:

1. How would the Yamaha R-N402D or R-N602D compare to my Monitor Audio A100 in terms of sound quality?

2. The Yamahas are classed as a network receivers - I always thought that a network receiver was a separate component that you hook up to an amp. As this is an integrated device - would it deliver inferior sound quality?

3. Are there any other amps that I should consider for £300-400 - I don't mind buying used either.

Thank you.

OverDrive · 11 Sep 2018 at 11:45

Thank you lucid, I understand now.

lucid said:
There's a different import tariff for amplifiers with a radio tuner, hence why it's cheaper to buy a receiver rather than an amplifier.

That is interesting.

OverDrive · 11 Sep 2018 at 17:07

IvanDobskey said:
The Yamaha seems to tick all the connectivity boxes and is decently priced too.

Agreed, the connectivity is certainly very good.

MrRockliffe said:
Perhaps consider putting the money towards a subwoofer instead - you'll get much better bass response over EQing a pair of 685 S2 (I own 685 S2s myself and tried to do the same thing).

I had thought about this as I believe the Monitor Audio A100 can accept a subwoofer. I don't really know anything about subwoofers though, or where to connect them. I do recall reading somewhere that they should be carefully paired with your amp and speakers to avoid ruining the sound.

Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks.

OverDrive · 12 Sep 2018 at 11:12

MrRockliffe said:
What size room is it going in? Do you have neighbours?

My speakers are in a room of 4 x 3.5 m with a solid wooden floor - fully detached house, so no neighbours in close proximity.

IvanDobskey said:
If you must have deeper bass, get some better speakers.

I've been really happy with the 685 S2s - they do have reasonable bass that really comes through with some music - but I do miss some of the deeper lows. The Bronze 5's do look like nice floor standers.

OverDrive · 12 Sep 2018 at 12:14

Wow - that certainly is a monster!

I was just after a modest increase in the lows though

Thanks

OverDrive · 13 Sep 2018 at 11:51

Thanks for the reply. I quite like the ASW608. The REL subs also seem to be highly regarded.

Regarding connection. My Monitor Audio A100 amplifier has left and right RCA outputs labled as ‘ANALOGUE PRE OUT’. The manual states that these can be used for connecting a sub.

What cable would be best to use, and do I connect both the left and right to the left and right RCA inputs on the sub? Or just pick either left or right?

Thanks, sorry about the noob questions.

OverDrive · 13 Sep 2018 at 12:28

Thank you.

Just out of curiosity, what would happen if both L and R are connected to the sub? Not planning on doing this btw.