[cd45123]

I have a small primary listening space with the fet valve pre and NP1. I’m interested in knowing what, if any sonic gains I might get from going to the M225. NP1 works driving a pair of Revel bookshelf speakers, but curious if anyone has done the comparison for moderate/easy to drive speakers at max 70db peaks.

Thanks

[AllanS]

I built my current system somewhat blindly around Spatial Audio M4 Sapphires (4 ohm / 90 db) in an 11’x14’ space at one end of a 14’ x 20’ room.  I briefly demo’d M225, which were fine, but I think my experience is more relevant to speaker selection than amps because I have a similar preference for low listening levels.
The larger woofers seemingly move more air at lower volumes so provide fuller sound at those same volumes.  If you’re considering speakers I’d recommend discussing the benefits of larger drivers on the GR Research or Spatial Audio circles.

[I.Greyhound Fan]

I reviewed both amps and preferred the 225 mono's.  the NP-1 is excellent though.  Remember, the 225's are xlr only and need the XLR to RCA box that AVA makes if your preamp is only single ended.

[RonN5]

One issue I see with the Revels is that they are often called lean...which at low listening levels means low bass output...so unless you corner load them or have an amp with PEQ that lets you shape the frequencies...they may never sound great no matter what amp you use.

Here is an interesting video from Nemo that talks about speakers for low listening levels.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zv6fpiHfpCA&t=701s

[I.Greyhound Fan]

The 225's will have more bass than the NP-1.  You can always add a Schiit Lokius 6 band tone control.  It works wonders.  Mine will be staying in my system forever.  Also, if you are using Audirvana Studio or Roon they have parametric eq's.

And Keep in mind, most of AVA gear sounds very good at low volumes.

[mr_bill]

I have a van alstine xlr to rca converter if anyone needs one for M225 amps or any other rca to xlr conversion. It is in excellent shape and great like all AVA products. Just message me.

[floresjc]

I listen to Salk song towers at very moderate levels in my office. 10x12 something like that. I have them paired with the NP1 and in that small space I’ve appreciated the extreme clarity and overall musicality of the NP1. I’ve not personally wanted for more. I use 225s up in my living room with Salk song 3 encores, but it’s a bigger space and they require more oomph. Personally I think those amps would be overkill in a smaller setup. I also have a couple SET 120s which are great and a a SET 400. The 225 and all of the SET I think would have more bass but I still think the NP1 is the choice for my small room.

[1965]

I’ve owned an NP1 for a few months now……I’ve noticed no shortage of bass. I do use a sub as my mains don’t reach 20hz. Mains are DIY SB Acoustics….4 ohm

[cd45123]

Thanks for all the responses. Seems to be a recurring theme that the bass is really where the M225s shine vs. the NP1 for some of you. I take it that’s the watts at play there and mids/highs are comparable on both. I love my setup, but maybe I explore the SET 500 or eventually the FVA1 for a different flavor.

[I.Greyhound Fan]

I really love the sound of the SET 500.  It has fabulous tone and midrange.