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Creating Basement Internet Radio Setup: Amplifier Advice Needed

S

Slumlord

Member
I've recently discovered Grace Digital and with it, I have decided to put stand alone streaming/internet radio setup down in my basement where I have a shop.

I have a Grace Digital Primo and it can attach to wireless speakers but for anything more robust, like the Polk Audio Monitor 30's I have ready for the system, I will need an amplifier to power it.

Since this area is a shop where I spend only a few hours in during the weekends, I felt the inexpensive Lepai LP-2020A may be a good solution, but I'm not sure I get such a good vibe off such an inexpensive piece of audio equipment..

That said, can anyone suggest a small, but mighty, amp that has adjustments for bass/treble? I'd like to stick with something under $100 and used is OK by me in case I'm pointed in the direction of Craigs or eBay.
 
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There are several members who speak very highly of the small "T" amps you are considering, search the site and read their comments.

You could also consider making the investment to becoming a subscriber here on AK. That will give you access to BarterTown where there are some great deals on gear. It's also generally a safer bet to buy from another member than from a stranger on CL or the 'Bay
 
As the owner of a Lepai 2020A I have some experience with them. They throw sound well above what their cost would suggest. However, the supplied 2A power supply is completely inadequate for getting all the performance they're capable of. I recommend replacing the stock supply with a 6A LCD power supply.
 
Thanks for the responses.

Wmgwizard: I'll run some searches on the keywords you provided and see what I can find. I have other forums I frequent and I agree about buying from members. I will also consider becoming a subscriber.

JoeESP9: I enjoy higher-end audio but I'm not one who usually tinkers with the inner workings. Before I do a little searching, can you give your thoughts on the level of difficulty replacing the power supplies?

EDIT: A quick search shows that the power supply you mention, Joe, is a plug and play device. You can't get much easier than that.
 
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Anyone who can't change them should probably not be given a fork to eat with.

BTW: I only recommend what I actually use.
 
I'm running mine on an old regulated 3.5 amp supply from Radio Shack. I've had it forever, it was originally sold for running CB radios and such from it. Its grossly overkill for the computer speaker duty it does, but it was otherwise unoccupied and happens to be close to the same footprint as my Lepai is. I don't know that it sounds any different at the very low levels I ask of it, though the couple of times I've cranked it I notice the power lights don't flicker anymore.
 
At low or lower levels with efficient speakers the stock 2A PS may be enough. However, if you want to get some volume with less efficient speakers the 6A power supply is IMO a must have. Driving a pair of Minimus 7's or Advent Mini's the 2A supply was totally inadequate. The blue display dimmed noticeably during any loud musical passage. The 6A LCD supply is only $10 from Amazon.
 
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