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Monarchy Audio SM-70 [message #7870]

Wed, 22 February 2006 14:50

FredT
Messages: 704
Registered: May 2009

Illuminati (1st Degree)

I had tried my 3 Pi Theaters with a Parasound HCA-1000A amp, and to my ear they sounded like high efficiency speakers driven by a high power mid fi solid state amp - not objectionable in any way, but definitely not the sweetness of a low power tube SET amp. So this time I'm trying a low power (25W/ch) Monarchy Audio SM-70. It's a zero feedback class A topology, with plenty of power for the 3 Pi's, and it sounds as close to tubes as any solid state amp I've heard. Good match for these speakers!

Monarchy Audio SM-70

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Sm-70 Amp Stand With Forced Air Cooling [message #7871 is a reply to message #7870]

Thu, 23 February 2006 20:03

FredT
Messages: 704
Registered: May 2009

Illuminati (1st Degree)

So far the only disadvantage I have found with this Class A amplifier is that the designer included some small cooling vents in the aluminum top cover, so when you fry eggs on it they drip through onto the power supply. The owners manual states "This amplifier generates a lot of heat. Good ventilation is eassential for long term reliability." This puppy runs HOT.

Windy Willy to the rescue! He's the guy who sells amplifier cooling fans on Ebay. His fans are 5", 12 volt DC models that are powered by a 6 volt wall wart to run at a slower, quieter speed. I built an amp stand around one of these fans, and it keeps the cooling vents on the SM-70 only slightly warm to the touch and runs quiet enough to not be distracting. Pictures of the just completed, unpainted stand at the link below.