Amplifier Advice (R3 META)
Hello everyone, I once again and reaching out for opinions on amplifiers.... I apologize if you're tired of seeing these posts! If you do not want to read the entire post, there is a TLDR below that summarizes things concisely.
Current Set up:
Front L/R: R3 Metas
AVR: Pioneer LX505
Power AMPS: Fosi V3 Mono's 48v PSU
Rears: B&W 602 S1's
Subwoofer: B&W ASW608 (Crossed at 50hz)
On my last post I gained a lot of feedback that somewhat confirms my theory of the Fosi V3 Mono's just not being the right match for my R3 Metas. I find it a little cold and analytical, and sometimes a bit too sharp for my liking. I do find that the speakers do somewhat fall apart when listening to complex tracks loud. From my research, it seems that the low impedance dips the R3 demand might be too tall of an order for the V3's to do cleanly.
After looking online and establishing a rough price point, I'm down to two options.. which are both class AB. I'd like to try AB as I think the sound signature will be more in tune with what i am looking for.
Option 1: NAD M25
This is a 7 channel monster from quite a while ago. Someone has it for sale 3 hours away from me for $1500 CAD. He got it fully serviced in 2024, replaced and upgraded caps.. and some other things on the invoice that he had provided me. He stated he hasn't had any issues since the service and is working flawlessly. In the photos, it does appear to be in nearly mint cosmetic condition. The seller has been super transparent and forthright, providing invoices, contacts for the company that did the service, etc.
This option appeals to me as it has tons of power, seven channels which I like as I can run the R6 Meta I intend to buy in the near future off of it. From what I've read, I think I would also like the sound signature of the NAD M25. However, it does have a fan, and is old.. so that makes me a bit hesitant.
Option 2: Rotel 1582 MKII
This is the more modern and simple option for taking care of my R3 Metas. From my understanding, the sound signature should be somewhat similar to the NAD, but should provide more punch and be a bit more musical. It is also newer, but also is only two channel so doesn't provide me the future flexibility as my space operates as a home theatre as well. It is also well over my budget, at $2399... so it would be a stretch to buy it.
Any advice is welcome, thank you!
TLDR BELOW:
I’m looking to replace my Fosi V3 Monos because they sound a bit cold/analytical with my KEF R3 Metas and seem to struggle or get sharp when complex music gets loud. I want to try a Class AB amp for a fuller/smoother sound.
I’m deciding between:
Option 1: NAD M25 — $1,500 CAD used
Older 7-channel Class AB amp, fully serviced in 2024 with upgraded caps and invoice provided. Appeals to me because it has lots of power, can also run my future R6 Meta center, and seems like it may have the warmer/smoother sound I’m after. Downsides: age and fan.
Option 2: Rotel RB-1582 MkII — $2,399 CAD
Newer/simpler 2-channel Class AB amp for just the R3 Metas. Likely safer long-term and possibly punchier/more musical, but it’s well over budget and doesn’t help with my future center/home-theater setup.
Which would you choose for KEF R3 Metas in a mixed music/home-theater setup?