Amp for Focal 814v tower

[Side99]

Just recently picked up a set of 814v towers from Focal and the matching center. I've heard then run on a few different receivers (Currently own an Onkyo 605 (90w/per), tested with a Denon and a Sony receiver that were both in the 120-130w/per range. I've also heard them hooked up to a Parasound 5125 (125w/per) and of the options the amp sounded the best (more open, defined, much more clarity in both the bass, midrange, and highs).

I've decided I want to go the route of an Amp but curious for recommendations as I've never run one. I'd prefer to stay in the $5-700 range. First thought would be the Parasound 2125, but I've also heard decent things about Emotiva amps (the xpa-3 to power all 3 speakers).

Any and all recommendations welcome and thank you in advance!

 

[AVRat]

Fyi, you'll also need a receiver/pre-amp with connections for a separate amp.

 

[AVRat]

Fyi, you'll also need a receiver/pre-amp with connections for a separate amp. The 605 doesn't have the necessary pre-outs.

 

[Side99]

Any recommendations then as far as a receiver with pre or a separate processor all together? I run a 5.1 set up currently so I know I'd have to change up the amps a bit if I went the complete separates route. Perhaps the emotiva combo or the route of a used one from audiogon?

Current setup:
Focal 814v tower (2)
Focal 814v center
BIC dv62si bookshelf (2)
Onkyo 605
Pioneer 5080-pdp (50" plasma)

As a side note I'm also looking to get a 65" panasonic v25 in the next couple weeks.. deciding what order to upgrade things in, just got the speakers a couple weeks ago

 

[AVRat]

If you're interested in 3D, and like the Onkyo receivers, the 708 is available tomorrow on Amazon. You could start with it, then add an Emo XPA-3 later if necessary. Or if no 3D, the Onkyo 707 or Denon 3310 are good options.

That Panny is sweet, just not big enough for my needs!

 

[Side99]

Ok, so I switched up receivers (borrowed Yamaha from my dad) that has preouts. I noticed Emotiva is having a pretty nice sale (10% off plus free shipping) and was considering the xpa-3 or the upa-5 ($540 & $500 respectively).
The power ratings on the speakers say the max at 200w and rms recommendations around 135w. With that stated would the 200wpc from the xpa be too much? Should I just go for the 125wpc from the upa?

 

[oppman99]

200 wpc is not too much for your speakers. I think either of the Emotiva choices you mentioned would work fine. I have had very good experiences with Emotiva amps (I own three of them). Actually replaced a Parasound amp with Emotiva and never looked back. As mentioned by AVRat, you may not necessarily "need" an external amp. I like what they have added to my system, so I've had no regrets spending the $ on the ones I have.

 

[Side99]

Do I NEED a 65" tv or a speaker system that makes my ears bleed? .. no. Do I want them.. absolutely
The receiver I have them hooked now is 110wpc as opposed to 90wpc and I can hear a strong difference (similar to the results when I demoed the speakers with difference receivers in store). I'll be watching some movies later and spending my day off work tomorrow rewatching scenes I used for demo purposes so I'll know more then.
I figured at the prices of the emotivas currently (along with what people seem to think of them) it wouldn't be a bad deal at all. Thanks for the input I'll let you know what I end up with!