Yamaha AX-570 amp

[Yamahog12]

Thank you, Raven. Integrated amp means no separate pre-amp, right? If so, I'm sure that's the way I'd go. The Triton-3 speakers are designed for 20-400w/channel and 8 Ohm impedance (according to the specs in the manual) and 90dB efficiency. I don't really know what the efficiency means. What would I look for in finding an amp that is compatible with these speakers?

[blackraven]

An integrated amp has a preamp and amp in one chassis.

Interesting that the Triton 3 speakers have a sensitivity of 90dB. I read in one review that it was 85dB. Obviously the review was wrong or I read it wrong. 90dB is very good and the speakers should be easy to drive. I still like a lot of power for dynamics.

[Yamahog12]

Do you know if there's away to play music from an I-pod through the Peachtree?

[Mr Peabody]

the tritons are a nice choice, you'd be rewarded with a nice amp. The built in DAC would play the music from an iPod, the exact particulars of now I'm not sure as I haven't gotten into the streaming thing.

[Yamahog12]

the tritons are a nice choice, you'd be rewarded with a nice amp. The built in DAC would play the music from an iPod, the exact particulars of now I'm not sure as I haven't gotten into the streaming thing.

Thanks. I've read that music in mp3 format is compacted and that limits the quality of the sound. If the mp3 files are used to burn a CD, does that do anything to improve the quality of the music output?

[Feanor]

Thanks. I've read that music in mp3 format is compacted and that limits the quality of the sound. If the mp3 files are used to burn a CD, does that do anything to improve the quality of the music output?

No, not really. Once compressed to a "lossy" format like MP3 the original detail can never be restored. Simply put, ALWAYS buy ONLY music of, 16 bit / 44.1 kHz resolution; likewise rip CDs only to this resolution. There are number of different "Lossless" formats; the most popular is FLAC but it might be more convenient to ALAC format, (files use an M4A extension), if you are using iTunes or an Apple device.

You might want a "lossy" format on your portable device to save storage space. However only ever buy 16/44.1 or better resolution; readily available programs can copy you "lossless" files to "lossy" files for the portable device.

[Yamahog12]

That's informative. Thanks.

[Yamahog12]

I spoke with a rep at Crutchfield Audio. She pointed me to an Onkyo TX-8160 receiver that was about $400 which she referred to as a "high current" 80 wpc.

I don't understand what makes the Peachtree 220SE produce a better sound than this Onkyo, for instance. Is it the built-in DAC? Would the $1200 price difference produce a noticeably better sound when playing through a CD player? BTW, Crutchfield sells the Peachtree and other much more expensive amps.

Again, I appreciate any help. Thanks.

[blackraven]

The peachtree will sound much better than the Onkyo. It is an integrated amp driving only 2 channels. It will have more power, be more dynamic and it has much better spec's. It is a digital amp it will have a lot of air, transparency and dynamic's. The sound stage will be wide and there will be more resolution and detail. The built in DAC will be better than what is in the Onkyo and should sound better than your CD player. You get what you pay for in audio. If you want a high end sound with a piece of gear that will allow you to upgrade in the future and be a center piece of your system, go with the Peach Tree. It will drive almost any speaker.

IMHO, the Peach Tree will sound much better and is the way to go. The onkyo will sound mid fi.

[blackraven]

Here is are some reviews on the PT Nova 220se, the first one pairs it with the Golden Triton speakers

First Listen: Peachtree Audio Nova 220SE integrated amp/DAC/headphone amp | The Absolute Sound

Peachtree Audio nova220SE Integrated Amplifier Reviewed

Peachtree Audio nova220SE Integrated Amplifier

Peachtree nova220SE Integrated Amplifier ? Reviews | TONEAudio MAGAZINE


I seriously think that the Onkyo will pale greatly in comparison. The Onkyo is a budget piece and Crutchfield is just trying to make a sale.

[Yamahog12]

Thank you, Raven. While I'm not looking to spend money needlessly, I am not afraid to spend a little more if it counts. Right now Crutchfield has the 220SE at $1600 incl shipping. They also let you try it for 60 days and if you aren't happy, you can send it back for $10. Heck, that makes it almost risk-free. I'm this close to doing it!

[blackraven]

Here is a great buy on one refurbished and sold by Peach Tree-

Peachtree Audio NOVA220SE Integrated Amplifier with DAC | eBay