Concept 2.5 vs 4.5

[erikd]

Hi AK,

I'm new to the wonderful world of vintage audio, having recently picked up my first receiver. It's a Concept 2.5, paired with a set of EPI 100 and a set of ADC 303A speakers. I really like how it sounds. Still I'm curious what other setups would sound like. Someone nearby is selling a Concept 4.5, and I wonder if I would notice any difference. What do you guys think -- what would I notice if I swapped in a 4.5 for my 2.5?

PS: This may be nuts, but I like the look of the wood cabinet receivers -- has anyone seen one on a Concept? If so, know where I could find one?

Thanks a lot, I'm enjoying getting into this stuff!
Erik

 

[captouch]

Welcome to AK!

How much will it cost you, net, to do the upgrade? You get an extra 20 watts, which is always good. But depends on the cost.

Also, are cosmetics comparable and is the 4.5 working 100% as far as you know?

 

[erikd]

I got my 2.5 for $60, which seems like a deal, and the guy wants $180 for the 4.5. I'm open to springing for it if I would actually notice a difference. I'm focused on optimizing one nice setup for everyday listening in my cramped Oakland apartment. More power sounds nice, but I don't want to chase power for its own sake. What do you think? Leaving aside the cost, would I somehow be even happier with the 4.5? Thanks!

 

[The Fuxtor]

you can always add a power amp to your Concept 2.5 thru the preout jumpers on the back. it makes a very nice preamp/tuner!

 

[captouch]

Personally, that sounds a little high for a 4.5. I paid less than that for my 5.5. There are a lot of good receivers out there, so I personally would be patient rather than jump into a 20W upgrade that will cost you that much extra.

 

[The Fuxtor]

I got my 2.5 for $60, which seems like a deal, and the guy wants $180 for the 4.5. I'm open to springing for it if I would actually notice a difference. I'm focused on optimizing one nice setup for everyday listening in my cramped Oakland apartment. More power sounds nice, but I don't want to chase power for its own sake. What do you think? Leaving aside the cost, would I somehow be even happier with the 4.5? Thanks!

For 200 bucks you could get one hellofa power amp! Most of us at one time or another will typically go for some type of separate components ... I find the sound of the unit is more influential on the preamp side, more power/more headroom..

 

[erikd]

I couldn't resist. I got the 4.5 for $100 and everything works well. Guess that makes me a Concept collector

Now I need someone to make me a cool walnut case for it, or apply some nice walnut veneers. Any ideas where I could get that?

 

[captouch]

Nice! Did you compare the sound of the 2.5 vs the 4.5 yet?

 

[darkblue94]

I've got a 6.5 just sitting all by is poor lonely self unused. I feel kind of guilty about keeping it out of the rotation but I don't feel ready to pass it on just yet. The price of the 4.5 seems a bit high but if it's in immaculate condition might be worth it.

 

[erikd]

Looking good, give it another shot. Or let me know if you want to part with it

What's in your regular rotation?

 

[erikd]

Nice! Did you compare the sound of the 2.5 vs the 4.5 yet?

The 4.5 sounds great so far. I do notice a tiny hum from the power supply area when I turn it on. Do that mean it needs a recap?

I'm hoping to do a side by side test soon to see what I notice.

 

[dsx123]

The 4.5 sounds great so far. I do notice a tiny hum from the power supply area when I turn it on. Do that mean it needs a recap?

I'm hoping to do a side by side test soon to see what I notice.

Did you ever manage to compare these two? I have the same question that you did, about the difference between the 2.5 and the 4.5.