Karaoke Forums

Hi All,
I'm thinkining of upgrading my system, so I was looking to get a power amp for my Yamaha S115V(500W @ 8 ohms) speakers. I've looked at 3 amps and need your help so I can choose one wisely. The choices so far, - and are not limited to only these 3 are:
(1) QSC RMX 2450 - 500W @ 8 ohms.
(2) Crown XTi 4000 - 650W @ 8 ohms.
(3) Yamaha P5000S - 500W @ 8 ohms.

Thanks in advance for any inputs, reviews, or suggestions.
Have yourselves a wonderful day and happy karaokeing.
Thanks again.

The Crown XTI 4000 and here's why:

1) Lighter
2) Better damping
3) Integrated DSP
4) More powerful than QSC
5) Built in USA

I didn't even consider the Yamaha...

I bought the XTi 2000 and love it

I'd echo Micky's opinion, given the options listed, I'd go with the Crown.

_________________
DJ Tony
Let It Rip Karaoke

Yep, the Crown would be the way to go, if price isn't the deciding factor. The others are hundreds cheaper, but in my opinion, go quality first always. There is one thing to consider though when buying amps that a lot of people tend to overlook, and that is the input/output options. The Crown only has speakon and binding post outs, and only has XLR inputs. So if you need other ways of connecting,,,,,just consider everything. Good luck!

One thing to consider is that the Yamaha amp does have built-in processing/tuning for those particular speakers. Not sure how dramatic it is though.

They call it "YS processing":

"With YS Processing (Yamaha Speaker Processing), you get direct compatibility with our popular Club Series loudspeaker systems. This special circuit optimizes output from the power amplifier to match the characteristics of Club Series speaker systems delivering a signal that is precisely what the speaker requires. With the YS Processing system, extra-smooth highs and enhanced low frequency from your Club Series loudspeaker system is assured."

SPEC LINK

Don't get "Quality" confused with "Features", yes the Crown has more features (probably more than you will ever need or use) but rest assured the Yamaha P series amplifiers are certainly not lacking in the quality department . I've had a lot of hands on experience with them for years and they have performed excellent without fail. Also as Barry mentioned, they do have a special circuit designed to optimize use with Yamaha speakers. I'm sure the P5000S will do everything you need it to do in a Karaoke situation.

_________________
Quickness of mind will deceive the eye

The S115V is a 250w RMS box. An XTi 4000 is pretty much overkill for those. I don't care for them on subs either, so unless your upgrade path includes much larger tops eventually ... I consider it a waste of money. With that said, there are two used XTi 2000s for sale on the LAB Marketplace right now for $400ea, a good price. http://srforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/48782/23647/

The XTi does have a bunch of nice DSP features built-in. This can save you a bunch of rack space, weight, and cables. It also doesn't weigh much compared to the RMX or Yamaha amps you are considering. But it really does suck on subs. Big time.

With regard to damping factor, as mentioned in Micky's post, it's a non-issue with modern amps. The speaker cable has more impact on damping factor than your choice of power amp. 12ga or smaller = win; shortest cables practical for the run = win

_________________
Jeff Wheeler, moonlight DJ/KJ

Any of those amps would be a good match for the Yamaha which have a 'program' rating of 500 watts @ 8 ohms (which you typically want to match the amp to). The Yamaha in this case would be a perfect mate as they were made for the speakers.

_________________
LIKE Lonman on Facebook - Lonman Productions Karaoke & my main site via my profile!

I run the QSC 2450 (for over a year several time a week) and it is a real workhorse. I just added the QSC 1450 (2 weeks ago to replace and old pyle pro) and couldnt be happier. My advice is to do your homework and make the deciscion for yourself.

_________________
No venue to big or too small. From your den to the local club or event, we have the music most requested. Great sounding system!

ive also got an rmx 2450. its a powerhouse with decent options and power. it was the best i could do for what i could afford to spend. Im quite happy with it. not to mention it has a 6 year warranty! i recently picked up a PLX 1804 used. I love it , and its lightweight makes it ideal for smaller setups when i have to lug all the gear.

_________________
the voices arent real, but they have some good ideas

CARVIN DCM-3000-L , American Made quality at a very reasonable cost-point! I use a Carvin-2570 to drive -4- Yamaha S115Vs, It BANGS and I've never seen the clip lights come on!

_________________
Man Must Know His Limitations -Clint Eastwood

Yamaha has done extensive testing to make their speakers and amplifies work together.

I have had nothing but problems with every Crown amplifier i ever owned. I have owned many different models. I'm done with Crown forever.

Yamaha 7000 the speakers peak at 1000 watts.

What is the warranty? I believe QSC's is six years.

You don't buy an amp to a speaker peak, you get an amp to match close to the program rating

_________________
LIKE Lonman on Facebook - Lonman Productions Karaoke & my main site via my profile!

The Perfect Match with Your Club Speakers
The new P-Series Power Amplifiers can be used with any loudspeaker system, but if you're using our Club Series, they will provide power and performance tailored to deliver maximum performance from your system. In an 8-ohm stereo application power output per channel on the P7000S is 700 watts, the P5000S 500 watts, the P3500S 350 watts, and the P2500S 250 watts. This wide selection lets you choose the amplifier that best matches the power handling capabilities of your speaker system.

Gives a small amount of breathing room.