Panasonic SB-ZR831

[Raziel]

I have an old set of Panasonic SB-ZR831 speakers that I would like to use. Problem is that they are 240w each and I have nothing to really drive them. What are some good amps/receivers that I can use to get the best sound out of these speakers?

 

[homebrew]

Your speakers don't have 240 watts of anything. That's the amp or receiver's job. Specifically which amp to recommend? Too many variables like listening level, room size, or music preferences. My basic recommendation is get the amp or receiver that delivers the most power into a 4 ohm load that fits your budget. You can never have too much power, but you can have too little.

 

[kevintomb]

Those look to be big rack stereo speakers. Probably fairly efficient. They are rated at 8 ohms.

Honestly, what do you use now to drive them, if anything? (asking if you have actually heard them ever, or just own them)

Any decent amp or older receiver might be all you need.
I get the feeling this may be a fairly entry level speaker with very thin cabinets etc.

 

[goodolpg]

Depending on how efficient a pair speakers are, you'd be surprised at how loud 10 watts can make them play.
Speaker wattage ratings are merely suggestions, not absolutes. Info I found says 200 watts (music) for those.
Lack of info available suggests they may be rack system units as already mentioned.
What are you powering them with now, and what do you feel is lacking?
What kind of music do you listen to, how loud, what size is your room?
You might be just fine with 30 or 40 watts per channel.
A Goodwill a/v receiver might work well and shouldn't cost a bunch.

 

[Raziel]

I just used an Insignia 100w x2 channel receiver. They worked well but I wanted to get the most out of them I could. I used them for home entertainment, music and gaming. I was thinking of getting an amp that can pump out enough wattage to really power them.

 

[goodolpg]

What do you mean by the "getting the most out of them"?
Have you ever turned the insignia all the way up? NOTE---not recommended.
I suspect those speakers would give up way before a full 200 watts were applied or the sound would be so distorted it would be unlistenable

 

[Raziel]

I want to make sure I'm not underpowering them and that I can get the best sound possible. I did turn it up pretty loud, not all the way and there was no distortion that I could hear.

 

[goodolpg]

More power, used wisely, is not a bad thing.
Possibly the most inexpensive way to big watts, might be class d amps. "Pro" amps for example, like Ashley or Crown.
That or scrounging CL, ebay, offer up, etc. Big watt receivers seem to be bringing big dollars, especially the big 3, Pioneer, Sansui, and Marantz. Since you already have 100 wpc you'd need to look for other brands than those unless extremely lucky.
Which brings up another question, what is your budget?

 

[Raziel]

I'm always looking for good deals on those sites. Budget wise, not looking to break the bank just something decent that can push the speakers with minimal loss of fidelity.