[mikeb]

Are there differences between the sound of the Khartago and the Stratos stereo amps? Besides the power 110wpc vs 150wpc and the resulting benefit especially when using low effeciency speakers. I see they both use the same size power transformer and possibly amp circuit board.

I'm looking to drive a set of GR-Research N2X (85db eff) and will have a powered sub to help on the lower octave. This will be in a 15X15X13 room with back wall 70% open to other areas.

Opinions/suggestions welcome.

[MaxCast]

Are you going to actively xo the mains?  If so, the wattage difference is probably not an issue.

[mikeb]

Not sure about that. I will discuss with Danny at GR for what's best. I was assuming I would put an inline RC type filter before the amp (RCA) but I will do what is best for the sound.

[mikeb]

When you say actively xo the mains, do you mean by some type of digital crossover/processor? If so I do not plan to do that. I will just use a 2 ch stereo preamp with a y on the pre-outs and then put a passive RC filter in the mains path with probably a 80hz xover. 

The pre-amp is still to be determined but looking at the Peachtree Nova (DAC pre section only) or Maverick D1. I'm not sure if the D1 will satisfy my input selection needs plus no remote control.

[AnalogDog]

85db efficiency? Sounds a lot like my Magnepans. Get the Stratos Extreme monoblocs.

[mikeb]

Well a lot has changed since I posted this 2 months ago. I didn't get the GR Research Neo-2X but I did get a new set of VMPS 626r's. These are ~89db effeciency so amp power is not as much of a problem. Did pick up a Stratos Plus last week but I haven't received it yet. Shoud make the VMPS sing pretty nice.

I saw someone selling 6 Stratos Mono Extremes on A-gon... It was a super deal and considered to buy and keep two and sell the 4 but someone beat me to it.

[AnalogDog]

I see.... Stratos monoblocs in your future! I think it still holds that, as long as you stay in the Stratosphere, THE biggest jump in sound quality is when you go from a stereo (in whatever iteration)Stratos to the monoblocs.