Is an external amp a necessity with Paradigm Studio 100s?

[nitin_mehra20]

I have heard that Studio 100s are power hungry speakers.

Will simply powering them with Marantz 8002 (125W) be enough to get good sound out of them or will buying an external amp be a necessity?

Since I have a medium sized room will the Studio 60s / B&W 683s be a better choice that the 100s??

Please advise...

 

[ParadigmDawg]

The 100's like power but it depends on headroom based on how loud you listen and the size of your room. You could try it with just the 8002 and see but they will really open up with a 200+ watt amp.

The "better choice" would be what sounds best to you. You get an extra driver with the 100's vs. 60's which may not matter if you crossover to a sub. The B&W sounds different so that's up to you.

 

[CraigV]

Maybe not a necessity, but more watts & current would help to get the most out of any speaker.

 

[cfrizz]

Choose whichever speakers suits YOUR ears the best. But as was said all speakers benefit from separate amplification.

Get the speakers you WANT, then when you're ready, get an amp to get the best out of them.