Amp Ultra or 3e A7 with Ultra

[Shotgun Rico]

I've had the OG Amp since April of 2024 and I would like to upgrade to something with a little more power. I plan on moving the OG Amp to handle rear duties for a surround setup. My JBL 4410a's can handle around 140 watts per channel. I could go with the Amp Ultra with its 100 watts and all in one sleek design or I could go with the 3e A7 with it's 140 watts and 48v 10a adaptor then pair that with a WiiM Ultra. I understand the Amp Ultra is the cheaper option and don't mind spending the extra money if the A7/Ultra combo could be any better. If anyone has experience with either of these amps I would appreciate any feedback. Both amps scored high on ASR's website so they are both good choices. Thanks

 

[vinylselect]

I have the WiiM Ultra & 3e A5, works very well for me. Control volume and auto on/off features of the amp from the Ultra.

 

[Mr Ee]

Are you able to describe what is missing when using the Amp, or what you hope to gain with the change?
(I'm not being argumentative!)

For me, compared to the amp pro, the amp ultra made a huge difference in one system while smaller, but easily noticable, in all others.
A clearer, cleaner, more precise, more engaging listening experience.
From that point of view, I'd expect you'd get similar from the ultra and 3e. I say that 'cos I can't tell the amp ultra apart from an ultra and a vibelink, which is surely somewhat similar to an ultra and 3e...

Do you want loud music?
I find that sometimes, with some music, the amp ultra's low-ish gain means that even at full tilt it's not crazily loud.
But I have to qualify that with it being more than adequate 95% of the time, with the speakers and room size playing their part.
It seems that the 3e has a gain selection switch, with low being quite respectful at 25-26bd for rca input.
That in itself will affect volume more than the few extra watts it has over the amp ultra.

After that the choice probably comes down to box count, inputs, outputs etc. which it seems is not really a concern for you.

Good luck choosing, and I'm sure you'll have fun either way.