Upgrading to Stereo 2.2 from Stereo 2.1, and other questions

[irobot]

Current setup:

First off, let me say that I am quite happy with my current setup but its been 4 years and the 'upgrade bug' is up and active in my head...

Currently I have ERC-2 for CDs, Pure i20 digital transport for iPod touch 4G, and Sony BDP510 for movies. XDA-1 takes digital signals from the iPod and blue ray player. Finally, USP-1 preamp connects it all to the UPA-2 amp which effortlessly drives the Klipsch Chorus-II speakers. I also have a Ultra 12 sub which is very well integrated with the speakers.

My listening mix is probably 75% music and 25% movies. For music, I mostly listen to classical and Jazz. The Klipsch speakers serve me very well due to their dynamic range and rich sound. I do not intend to replace those for quite a while.

For the movies, the BDP sends the HDMI video to the projector and downmixed Coax digital audio to the XDA-1. I like the sound but wish there was a little more punch at the lower end.

Upgrade plan:

Replace USP-1 with XSP-1
Replace UPA-2 with XPA-2 (or 2x XPA-100)
Add SVS SB-2000 sub

Now the questions:

1) Does this upgrade make sense to you folks?

2) Given that the Klipsh are very sensitive speakers, do I really need the power of that XPA-2? What improvements can I expect from the XPA-2 over UPA-2? How about 2x XPA-100 instead? (Also is it safe? The speakers are rated for 100w cont, 1000w peak)

3) Is there anybody out there who uses SB-2000 along with Ultra Sub 12? How do they sync with each other?

4) Is is necessary to upgrade to XSP-1 in order to add a sub?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

[trevordj]

1) The plan seems reasonable. What are you hoping to accomplish with the upgrade from the UPA-2 to the XPA-2. The UPA-2 is a stout amplifier and puts out quite a bit of power. If you want the balanced connection that makes sense, although if you don't have any noise in your system and you are able to get enough volume out of your Klipsh speakers I don't know how much benefit you will get from upgrading the amplifier.

2) I don't think so. I think you would be better off sticking with the UPA-2 and getting two SVS subs, selling your current emotiva sub.

4) You can add a second sub without getting the XSP-1, you can simply do a Y-splitter from the single sub output of the USP-1 to both of your subs.

Just my opinion, I think your current plan is fine, this is just what I would do.

[jlafrenz]

I agree with Trevor. Your plan sounds reasonable, but it really depends on what you are trying to achieve. What do you feel your current system is missing? What are your goals in adding a second subwoofer? Do you want more bass, smoother response or true stereo subs?

[ilok]

Just do a bass boost and save your money, JBL target curve is pretty good.

[garbulky]

Hi there!
I think I can offer some advice here. I started out with an XDA-1 and a UPA-2. I have heard some Klipsch though not your specific one.
First....changes in electronics DO make a difference.
But....anything can easily mask it. That's the issue.
I don't mean to be insulting to your setup. I'm sure it sounds great. However, I have some doubts the Klipsch would be resolving enough to make large upgrades in electronics worth while. You may need better speakers to notice the difference. \
So here's my upgrade path I suggest. But remember this is only provided your Klipsch is capable of it. I don't know if it is.
The DC-1 is significantly better than the XDA-1. Nice 3d sound. Lots of detail. Better at being a preamp to a large amp - and to the UPA-2.
My ultimate DAC I'm going for is the Schiit Yggdrassil but it's very expensive.

DUAL SUBS WILL MAKE MORE DIFFERENCE THAN PRETTY MUCH ALL OF THESE UPGRADES.
ATS ACOUSTIC panels. Amazing value for difference obtained. Even one behind your couch at head level...

The XSP-1 is FANTASTIC. Lots of midrange slam. Very natural sound etc. And works well with dual subs. Though some subs have had trouble getting enough signal to them. This is rare but has been reported.

The XPA-1 gen 2 is truly an absolute gem of an amp. I haven't heard better. The XPA-2 is also fantastic the gen 1 was a little removed from the XPA-1 gen 2. But still good. I heard the XPA-2 gen 2 was slightly better than XPA-2 gen 1. Get these USED if you can. Warranty transfers. The improvement over a UPA-2 is less smearing on quick dynamic transients. The UPA-2 does have smearing in its transients. It's just not obvious until you hear an amp without it. Also the bass is more rounded out. More bass capability and a tiny bit more extension. The XPA-1 gen 2 is another level. It also offers some startling clarity. Sort of pulling away the veil sort of thing. If your speakers are resolving enough to reproduce it.

For subs I have heard Dual PSA XV 15 and they were stunning.

But I think your biggest limiter is your Klipsch

[novisnick]

I agree with the others as far as what is your goal, hope to achieve and at what price.
First deside what you want and how long you're willing to wait for it,,,,,,i.e.; short term vs long term goals, unless money is no object, then you're ate the wrong forum,,,,,,he,,,,he,,,,he,,,,,Budget followed by goals.

Speakers will make the biggest improvement,IMHO, I went from a set of Klipsch 28s, don't get me wrong! I really loved their sound but as I became more fussy I wanted a more mature sound IMO.

For two channel I don't even employ my subs, don't need them for that, unless I'm in a THUMPING MOOD!!! Believe me a set of XV-15se 's will really rock and the neighborhood. I just don't mask my jazz and lighter music with them. I outlying use the subs for HT.

The XSP-1, DC-1 combo will shock you! Amazing for sure!

Klipsch, can they handle the power? I've driven mine with XPR-1s and they loved it! Great clean power won't hurt speakers as quickly as under powering them and driving them hard. Pour the power on them, they can take it, just don't over drive with underpowered amps.

More thoughts later.

Good luck