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Amp Config for B&W 802D's

I see a lot of discussion of Brand A vs Brand B in driving B&W 802D speakers. I'm trying to gather a bit different info.

I'm ready to change amps and there seems to be some different possibilities available for amp configurations and how the speakers respond. I'm interested in the pros and cons of each.

1st - a large stereo amp (400w/ch) wired direct.
2nd - a pair of mono amps (400w each) wired direct.
3rd - a pair of momo amps (400w each) bi-wired.
4th - a multi channel amp (200w mid/hi, 400w bass) for each speaker, or something close to that.

Does any one of the configurations have a significant advantage? Also, do balanced interconnects between the preamp and amp have an advantage over a good set of RCA's.

If you have some thoughts and care to share your expertise I would appreciate the info.

Thanks,
Paul
pkubica
pkubica OP
134 posts
 
I was trying to stay away from the typical one brand vs another, because you can get that info elsewhere on the forum. However, I am looking at several different possibilities.

- McIntosh MC402(400w/ch) or a pair of MC501's (500w/ch)
- Classe CA400/401(800w/ch@4 Ohm) or a pair of CAM400's(800w/ch@4 Ohm)
- Wyred4sound (Cullen) pair of SX-1000's (1000w/ch@4 Ohm) ICE amps
- Wyred4sound MultiChannel a pair of 250's (500w/ch@4 Ohm) and a pair of 500's (1000w/ch@4 Ohm) ICE amps

The first two are the more traditional (safe) approach, the last two are a bit "Out of the box". However, the multi ICE amp solution is about the same cost as the Mono's and has some interesting possibilities.

Any of the choices will be a good upgrade.
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
If you go the McIntosh route, I'd opt for the 501's over the 402.
arupg
42 posts
 
Symphonic-Line Kraft 250 with 802Ds..... That's the route I'm taking !
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,766 posts
 
forget MC402 with 802D. At least go for MC501 if going with Mac.

I would also suggest to add Pass Labs X600.5 mono blocks to your list.
arupg
42 posts
 
Just had the Pass X600.5 monoblocks with Jeff Rowland Coherence II with the 802s. Though excellent, am now going with Sym-Line Kraft. I'm led to understand this combo is quite common in Europe.
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