Newbie question about amps/speakers

[yoyo1979]

Hi all.

Im a new comer to audio gear and wanted to get your opinion.

I have a 5.1 system in my living room (open floor plan). I have a Marantz 5014 with Focal 816s as mains, Focal center and in ceiling rear Focal 6.5”. My sub is svs sb3000. I have a $1500 budget for some new gear. Should I get the XPA-3 or get a Bas-x 3 channel with an addl SB3000?

I use my set up for both movies and music and I enjoy playing it loud. Thanks for your time and any advice.

[mgbpuff]

Another SB3000? Wow, that a lotta bass! Given your proclivity for big low end, you need big high end also. Go with the XPA-3 - it can even be expanded to more channels later.

[AudioHTIT]

I don't disagree with mgbpuff's thinking, but given that your Marantz doesn't have balanced outputs, I'd probably go with the BasX and another Sub. While the XPA is indeed a better amp, and roughly double the BasX's power (3 dB), I doubt it would be that audible, whereas a second sub would. If you really push your current amp (receiver) to the limits, then maybe go for the XPA, otherwise I vote BasX & SB3000.

[garbulky]

I would second AudioHTIT. If you have the space I would never regret a second sub! Having said that, I always wondered what I was missing out with the Bas-X (back in the day it was known as the UPA series) amps vs XPA amps. So I don't know! I prefer the sound of the bas-x series vs the XPA gen 3 series (single blade version). So take that for what it's worth. But I do know that second subwoofers make noticeable differences - and it's not about volume but a smooth even response. Two subs can cancel out bass bumps and dips caused by room interaction.

[oidarnam]

If you think you will be upgrading amps on other channels in the future or want even more headroom for the front, go XPA. You'll still probably want a second sub later anyway. But the BasX and second sub is probably more bang (boom?) for the buck.

[davidl81]

I tend to think the best audio upgrade will be the BasX amp and the 2nd sub. In an open floor plan the 2nd sub can really make a big difference. Not really adding more bass per say, but making the bass more even throughout the room. And I think the upgrade from the internal Marantz amp to the BasX amp is a quality jump.

[yoyo1979]

Thanks gents for the all input. Ive decided to go with the bas-x and instead of sub I upgraded my fronts to the Chora 826. I was able to test both in house and honestly the 826 had plenty of bass without a sub being on.

[leonski]

You could ALWAYS make your room better.
the best system you could ever think you could ever afford is wasted in a poor room
But? A reasonable system...(I'm a fan of Focal) would be even BETTER in a terrific room

Will your Significan Other ALLOW or are you stuck?