The Q Acoustics 5010 is a compact pair of bookshelf speakers and is an ideal choice for listeners who are planning to set up a desktop sound system or a home theater system. They have a very modest price point as well, and this might sway many to consider using the 5010 speakers.
It may be an affordable pair of bookshelf speakers but that doesn’t mean you should just go for any kind of amplifier. Let us learn more about the Q Acoustics 5010 as this will help us in finding a matching amp for them.
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The Characteristics and Merits of Q Acoustics 5010
They do look aesthetically pleasing for a bookshelf speaker in this price range. Not to mention, pretty small too. In the front of the Q Acoustics 5010 stand-mounter cabinet, you will find a 1″ (25mm) treble unit followed by a 4.5″ (110mm) bass unit. In the back, there is a rear-firing bass port. Since the 5010 speakers are small, you can try how near you can place them to the back walls. You can adjust the distance until you find the bass performance is to your liking but please do not expect much from a bookshelf speaker of this size.
The recommended amplifier power of the Q Acoustics 5010 starts from 15 Watts to 90 Watts. Its speaker sensitivity is low, at 86.3 dB to be exact. This means we should get an amplifier which can provide power in the higher region of the recommended range. Especially if you are planning to play the Q Acoustics 5010 speakers at a loud volume and without any support from a subwoofer. Based on their size and specs, the 5010 is more suited to be used inside a small listening room or at a near-field distance.
More information about the Q Acoustics 5010 5.1 system at Amazon
Due to their cabinet size, the Q Acoustics 5010 is suitable to be used as surround speakers. They sound agile which is as expected for a bookshelf speaker of this size and quality. The bass delivery is tight but lacks impact and doesn’t reach deep. If you are planning to have a home cinematic experience, it will be crucial to get yourself an active subwoofer to supplement the bass performance. This will also help to take some load off your amplifier.
Q Acoustics 5010 has good dynamics handling and doesn’t sound cringe when pushed. This allows for a longer listening session before getting too fatigued. It would be cool if the Q Acoustics 5010 sounded a bit more detailed. The soundstage projected is better than expected for a bookshelf speaker of this size. We have listed the best amplifiers that you can choose and match with your Q Acoustics 5010 speakers, you can take a look at them below.
Best Amplifiers for Q Acoustics 5010
The NAD D 3045 is one of the best amplifiers to go for and is an ideal choice for Q Acoustics 5010 speaker owners who are planning to set up a desktop sound system. Like the 5010, the 3045 digital amplifier has a compact design and what’s more, you can position it upright which will save you even more surface space. There is a subwoofer output that you can use to connect to an active sub. With a powered subwoofer supplementing the bass, you now have a full-range stereo system without breaking your wallet.
More information about the NAD D 3045 at Amazon
Cambridge Audio CXA61 is one of the best amplifiers to match your Q Acoustics 5010 bookshelf speakers. It is an award-winning amplifier with a plethora of features. This is an amazing choice for listeners who want to add a bit more punch to their music-listening experience. To make it even more exciting, you can connect a powered subwoofer to the Cambridge Audio CXA61. The subwoofer will supplement the Q Acoustics 5010 bass performance, giving you even more impact.
More information about the Cambridge Audio CXA61 at Amazon
Are you still searching for a compact amplifier for your desktop sound system setup? Then you might want to take a look at the NAD D 3020 V2. It is an excellent alternative to the NAD D 3045 as the D 3020 V2 has a lower price point. It is sufficient to drive the Q Acoustics 5010 bookshelf speakers but do not try to push the amplifier too hard. There is a subwoofer output on the D 3020 V2 and you can connect a sub to get deeper bass and higher output since this is also what the Q Acoustics 5010 is lacking.
More information about the NAD D 3020 V2 at Amazon
Denon PMA-600NE is one of the best amplifiers to go for if budget is of concern and you still want features to play with. The Denon PMA-600NE is capable of driving the Q Acoustics 5010 bookshelf speakers. It has plenty of features such as a built-in DAC, MM Phono Equalizer, Bluetooth, and more. The price point of the PMA-600NE is really reasonable. The sound quality is good for the asking price and has a hint of warmth to it. For a more detailed performance, you can switch on the amp’s Analog Mode.
More information about the Denon PMA-600NE at Amazon
The Marantz Cinema 70S is one of the best amplifiers to go with your Q Acoustics 5010 stand-mounters. It is an excellent option for listeners who are planning to set up a home theater system. The Cinema 70S has the amplifier power to drive the 5010 speakers without worries but we still recommend connecting 1 or 2 active subwoofers. With the powered subwoofer integrated into your HT system, you can enjoy full-range and impactful surround sound presentation.
More information about the Marantz Cinema 70S at Amazon
If your budget is tight or simply still looking for an AV receiver, the Denon AVR-S770H is a fantastic option to go for. It has the amplifier power to drive the Q Acoustics 5010 bookshelf speakers. What’s more, you can enjoy 8K video resolution and 3D sound presentations. These latest HT features will bring your home cinematic experience to the next level. Do remember to connect at least 1 active subwoofer to your home theater system. Not only it will supplement the bass but also deliver the missing subterranean bass frequencies that the Q Acoustics 5010 speakers are unable to muster.
More information about the Denon AVR-S770H at Amazon
In Conclusion
You might want to work out your requirements first before truly considering the amplifiers on this list. For instance, if you are sure you want to set up a home theater system then you can take a look at the AV receivers of this list. Your budget will also play a major role in deciding which amplifier to go for so do take some time to think it through.
