Desktop amp for LS50s, the power requirement conundrum.

[PacketofCrisps]

Hi there,

I'm looking for a desktop amp for LS50's, nearfield configuration, casual listening levels measured today around 60-65dB, loud listening listening levels are around 75-80dB max.

Setup,

Config 1) PC > Chord Qutest > Violectric V550 > Amp > Speakers

Also I want to be able do,

Config 2) PC > AMP > Speakers

I want to be able to do both of the above configurations into the amp so ideally an amp with a basic USB DAC so I can just just switch between amp/dac and Qutest within windows, config 1) is for dedicated music listening, and Config 2) is for when I'm just watching youtube, browsing web, casual gaming, working etc, so I turn off my pre-amp and Qutest DAC and linear power supply and go into 'basic config'.

Now I've been reading a lot on this forum over the last few days and there seems to be conflicting opinions and views regarding the power required for low ohm, low sensitivity speakers, I'm personally a believer that 1w in real terms is quite a lot of power and loud, but reading through some of the traditional amp reviews (cambridge audio cxa81 mk ii thread for example) some people on here say that 80w are only good for sensitive speakers and won't power the likes of an LS50 properly, you need something like XTZ A2-300!?

Now usually I'll read/watch a few reviews online from who I believe to be trusted reviewers, but recently I've tried to find a real answer to the power requirement question thus hopefully taking the doubt out of the equation so you can enjoy your music knowing that your getting the most out of your speakers and they are performing to spec at least, this is a science based forum, but power requirement still seems to be a open debate?

What amp can I get where I can sit back, and know it's performing optimally with a speaker like the LS50?

 

[ZCD]

Hi, for your LS50 e.x. an Aiyima A70 Stereo will do perfectly fine and usuable with switchable RCA and XLR inputs. If there is a need add a dac of your choice for config 2 e.x. SMSL SU-1.

AIYIMA A70 Stereo Amplifier Review

This is a review and detailed measurements of the AIYIMA A70 stereo class D amplifier. It was sent to me by the company and costs US $190 with 48v @ 5 amp supply. As tested with 48v 10amp GaN supply, it costs US $220. As you see, the A70 comes in vertical desktop configuration. Controls are...

www.audiosciencereview.com

SMSL SU-1 Stereo DAC Review

This is a review and detailed measurements of the SMSL SU-1 stereo USB DAC. It was arranged to be sent to me by shenzhenaudio from the company and costs US $79.99. Despite its simplicity, the SU-1 manages to look elegant with nice fonts and LED indicators for different inputs. Back panel has...

www.audiosciencereview.com

 

[Clmrt]

Sounds like you need an integrated with at least a USB DAC and one analog input.

Will you EQ? Basic tone controls?

Then power. The science is math, with variables defined as you have above. I cheat and use the Crown calculator for the math.

 

[PacketofCrisps]

Sounds like you need an integrated with at least a USB DAC and one analog input.

Will you EQ? Basic tone controls?

Then power. The science is math, with variables defined as you have above. I cheat and use the Crown calculator for the math.

View attachment 424415

Not EQ or Tone controls, I take the music as it comes.

 

[Clmrt]

Old me would go grab the cleanest Crown D60/75 I could find, have it refurbished, and call it a day. New me would get a NAD D series. I see by looking into your gear you are in another universe, so I can't really offer commensurate recommendations.

In any case, no less than 30 watts for peace of mind.