Need suggestions on what amp to connect to pc

[TrevorR]

Since I'm wanting to do this on the cheap, what about a cheap avr, would that be a good idea or should I use something like the gizmo?

Speakers I have are elt525m.

Thanks

Trevor

[Mike_TX]

You haven't supplied much relevant information.
The TCA Gizmo works very well as a PC amp.
I and others have paired it with the av123 ELT525M mini-monitors.
The 525's are very efficient, but for computer speakers there is plenty of power in the Gizmo.
The other thing to consider is if you need more than one set of inputs. If you don't then get the Gizmo.

Mike

[TrevorR]

You haven't supplied much relevant information.
The TCA Gizmo works very well as a PC amp.
I and others have paired it with the av123 ELT525M mini-monitors.
The 525's are very efficient, but for computer speakers there is plenty of power in the Gizmo.
The other thing to consider is if you need more than one set of inputs. If you don't then get the Gizmo.

Mike

Would I be able to use the sub that came with my computer speakers with it? It is a harmon kardon 3 speaker set model # HK395.

[Mike_TX]

I'm not sure if you could use it or not.

This is what I found on the HK395:

Subwoofer Specifications:
Enclosure: Tuned port
Transducer: 5 inch Subwoofer with rubber surround
Power: 18 Watts @ 10% (THD+N)
Frequency Response: 45 Hz to 250 Hz
Weight: 2.1 lbs
Dimensions: 6.3 inch (W) x 10.6 inch (D) x 12.2 inch (H)


I wouldn't call a 5 inch speaker a "SUB"-woofer.

I would either leave it out completely or buy a new sub.
You could buy a used subwoofer for cheap that is much better than that or buy any of a number of newer small subs -- eg the TCA 10.1 (not out yet), Emotiva, etc.

Mike

[TrevorR]

I'm not sure if you could use it or not.
I wouldn't call a 5 inch speaker a "SUB"-woofer.
I would either leave it out completely or buy a new sub.
You could buy a used subwoofer for cheap that is much better than that or buy any of a number of newer small subs -- eg the TCA 10.1 (not out yet), Emotiva, etc.

Mike

I just thought it might give a little bit more for lows, but I don't have to use so I will forget it and just do the elt's.

Thanks for your help Mike.

[Mike_TX]

Small subwoofer comparisons

I just thought it might give a little bit more for lows, but I don't have to use so I will forget it and just do the elt's.

Thanks for your help Mike.

No problem.

See this comparison thread (PDF file) for small subs - link.

Mike

[blackzarg]

I just thought it might give a little bit more for lows, but I don't have to use so I will forget it and just do the elt's.

Thanks for your help Mike.

Heh, the woofer on that sub is the same size as the woofer on the ELTs ;-) I'd just forgo that sub. If your desk is away from the wall, the ELTs do produce a surprising amount of bass for their size (within reasonable expectations for a mini-monitor).

The TCA Gizmo does make it easy to hook up subs with a LFE input, though. You don't have to deal with a bunch of excess wire for the speaker level inputs.

[InfernoSTi]

A question: how will you hook up the computer to the amp? Are you using an external DAC or some other system?

Your speakers should do great! I had considered them when I bought the WAFs and had fully intended on keeping them in the home office. I didn't realize the WAFs sounded better than my **** speakers (ouch, no flaming me, please). I have no doubt if you get the Gizmo and use your speakers, you will really enjoy them.

[TrevorR]

A question: how will you hook up the computer to the amp? Are you using an external DAC or some other system?

This cable to from pc to amp, unless you guys suggest something else.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10218&cs_id=1021804&p_id=665&seq=1&format=2

No external dac for me.

[InfernoSTi]

I'm sure that will work fine.

However, if you find the music a bit too compressed after a while, even an inexpensive DAC will make a world of difference. I have seem USB DACs on audiogon.com for under $100 regularly (there was one for $75 a day or two ago). Watch, wait, and pounce on a deal if you see one!

Enjoy a much, much better sound experience!