3 XPA-1's (LCR) and XPA-2 (rears) for 5.1 theater?

[KrellAV]

I would like to know who has this set-up or maybe 3 XPA-1's with 2 XPA-2's for 7.1. I am considering replacing my current 5 mono amps (800 wpc) with this solution. I have 5 full range mains and want to run them that way with the Emotiva's. I realize there will be an overall power reduction. My current amps are true differentially balanced amps when bridged (single balanced connection). The theater has both dedicated 20 and 30 amp line service. Source power is not a problem.

My motivation is to get new amps (lol) and I believe a differentially balanced mono amp to start with (non-bridged) would have potentially better drive capabilities (low impedance). This would likely level the power deficiency somewhat.

Those with this or similar set-up, please chime in.

Thanks in advance!
KrellAV

[briank]

KrellAV, you might give Emotiva a call with any questions on that set up as they have 3 xpa-1's and 2 xpa-2's set up in there home theater room. I believe everyone that attented Emofest last year would agree that it was one awesome sounding theater room.

[esquire]

The XPR-7 may do the trick an cost less... an alternative worth considering. And yes, the home theater room at the 09 Emofest was most excellent.

[ocezam]

Aug 24, 2010 17:09:53 GMT -5 esquire said:

The XPR-7 may do the trick an cost less... an alternative worth considering. And yes, the home theater room at the 09 Emofest was most excellent.

It doesn't sound to me like the OP is concerned much about cost.

[KrellAV]

Thanks for the input!

LOL, costs are always a concern but I do prefer monoblock amps with high power and low impedance drive capabilities. So the XPA-1s seem to be the best alternative for the LCR. Vincent recommended I go with the XPA-2 for surrounds as their sonic signature is very similar to the XPA-1s. My first thought was to use the UPA-1s but he did not think that would be a good match. I was a little surprised by that.

KrellAV

[budgetaudiophile]

It may not be a downgrade at all if your speakers are 4ohm, at which the XPA-1 is rated at 1000 watts. If they are 8 ohm speakers, I question why you'd want to downgrade the power to 500 watts from 800, unless your existing amp is running hot, or is limiting you in some way as far as driving the lower impedance dips in your speakers. As long as it's quality amplification, output power is king. More watts is generally better, and all that.

[KrellAV]

The Belles desined OCM 500/800 amps are two channel amps but when bridged become 800/1000 watts. They are differentially balanced when using the single XLR connection on the rear. My only issue with the amps is that when running balanced the required speaker impedance is 8 ohms minimum. This was not a problem when I ran them on Von Schweikert VR4s but with the Mirage OMD 28s their impedance is nominal at 6 with less than 4 at certain frequencies. This is what has led me to the XPA-1s. They do double their power at 4 ohms where the OCM cannot. I may actually get more power and control from the XPA given their design as a true mono amp only with being differentially balanced from input to output.

I am a long time Krell guy but to get this amp from Krell, even used, would be price prohibitive. Used for older generation FPB series mono 650s run about $15K for the LCR application. In addition you have huge heat issues that I am trying to avoid.

Thanks,
KrellAV

[briank]

I'd have to disagree with Vincent on this one. Personally, I would use the UPA-1's for the surrounds. I think they would match up very well with the XPA-1's and be one awesome all mono-block set-up, however, I will admit the differences between the two choices are pretty small. It's a win-win.

[Deleted]

For me personally, I'd go with the xpa-2's for surrounds just to keep in the same line of amps.