Doubts about amp or speaker upgrade

[FennerMachine]

I'm suspecting the amplifier.
It could have developed a fault, or it could be that my speakers are an awkward load.
The Denon has much higher distortion measurements for 6 ohm load than for 8 ohm and my speakers are rated 6 ohm but likely drop below that.
I've seen measurements for the 22L2's and they go down to around 4.5 ohms at several frequencies.

 

[PENG]

I'm suspecting the amplifier.
It could have developed a fault, or it could be that my speakers are an awkward load.
The Denon has much higher distortion measurements for 6 ohm load than for 8 ohm and my speakers are rated 6 ohm but likely drop below that.
I've seen measurements for the 22L2's and they go down to around 4.5 ohms at several frequencies.

If it is due to difficult load you should not hear such distortion by simply lowering the volume to say 75 dB level sitting 10 ft from the speakers. I think the 3801 has developed a fault, or could simply be some bad capacitors. The defective part will likely be something that affects all channels, because the chance is low that all 7 amps could have failed at the same time in the same way.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

His 3801 does not have Audyssey, so I assume you are suggesting that he should upgrade.

I think it's about time to update to the age of Audyssey DEQ, HDMI, & AirPlay, among other cool features.

 

[FennerMachine]

So, I'm going to get a new amp.
My new room only has space for stereo, surround would be doable but can't be bothered.

Choices:
Marantz PM-14S1
Cambridge Audio Azur 851a
Icon Audio ST40

I've booked a demo for Azur 851a Monday just to get an idea of what the amp can do.
I'll follow it up with home demo's in a couple of weeks.

 

[FennerMachine]

Demoed Cambridge Audio Azur 851a today along with Roksan Caspian M2 and Musical Fidelity M3si.

Long story short, I liked it.

Heart says Icon Audio ST 40
Head says CA 851a