[rockdrummer]

3.5 watts and a 93db sensitivity rating.  From what I read, I would love a Bottlehead 2A3. 

I am jones-ing for a DIY Audio rig.  An amp and speaker kit would be extremely rewarding and fun to build.  But not sure if 3.5 watts is enough.  I don't crank my music but I don't always listen at classical chamber music levels either.

If you could give advice for that pairing that would be great. 

If I go out and buy a db meter, can I buy bottom of the barrel and use that number as a starting point?
Ben

[jparkhur]

I had the N3s at 91 db and a Decware 3 watt amp and it was great.  You won't have to worry about the low end due to the amps.   I would go for it.   

[jtwrace]

You might find this thread of some use.

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=94743.0

[ebag4]

Ben PM'd me about the pairing a couple of weeks ago, I indicated to him that the Bottlehead may not put out enough power for the V2s due to their lower sensitivity (than the V1s).   I was also basing this on a report from Tyson and Pez that Pez's 8 watt SET wasn't enough to drive the V2's adequately.

Ben, you may want to PM Tyson and see what he has to say.  I would also recommend posting your question on the GR Research circle, you will likely get more opinions from V2 owners there.

Good luck with your search!

Best,
Ed

[rockdrummer]

Ed, from all the info I found about other low watt amps, I came to the conclusion you already told me.  I'm thinking that I'm going to be upgrading quite a bit getting a new amp and if I do, I really want it to do EVERYTHING I need.  Even on Bottlehead's website they mention 93 db sensitive speakers being okay for small rooms and less-than-demanding music. 

I think I was desperately hoping I would get an exception to the rule.  Don't think I will though. 

I am really curious what volume I usually listen at, so that's why I want to measure my current system to tell me what I can expect.

Thanks so much for all the info guys.

Much appreciated.
ben

[versus rider]

I have been using bottlehead paramours with CSS FR125SR drivers at 85.5db they work well in a smallish room, 5m x 5m. These drivers run fullrange so crossover components to get in the way, the spl of a speaker isn't the be all and end all, some speakers are more difficult to drive than others regardless of db