Benchmark AHB2 in Mono Block Configuration

I see some posts above on the CODA. Let me chime in on this too.

I used a Benchmark LA4 on the CODA #8 and the CODA #16. They both are good with the #16 approaching great. The #8 lacks some clarity that I like with the #16 and AHB2.

Another amp that I like more than the #8 is the Sanders Magtech. I recently heard from someone with informed knowledge on this that CODA was involved in the design of that amp. The power supply is from Sanders. This amp, which I bought from Sanders used for $4k, is even better than the #8. I think it is the top end that is better than the #8. I love the Magtech on my Magnepan LRS+. The #16 is also great on the LRS+, but I use it elsewhere.

@zlone I am currently listening to the Schitt Mjolnir preamp (from 2023) with the Sanders and the LRS+. Great sound, a bit too warm for me for long term listening, I like the Holo Serene and Benchmark LA4 for long term preamp duties. The Mjolnir is a pure Class A preamp and a very nice unit. It is a 2-channel preamp and headphone amp, though the headphone amp does not work well with my funky RAAL CA-1a phone. Do not let the price fool you.

Schiit Audio: Audio Products Designed and Built in Texas and California

Edit: I am doing some testing on my office with the Holo Serene preamp and the Schitt Mjolnir. I cued up the Isley Brothers 3+3 on both preamps and for my ears the utter neutrally and clarity of the Serene wins over the warm Class A of the Mjolnir. The only thing the Serene lacks is a balance control. If I can make my off centre seating work without the balance control I am keeping the Serene with the Sanders. A great combo.

@yyzsantabarbara Thanks for info on the Mjolnir, it is tempting, but without a remote, it is a non-starter. I wonder how the Kara compares?

Note I came from a Freya+ -> Coda 07x - Benchmark LA4 progression, similar to yours. I just tried out an Ayre K-5XEMP, and it adds quite a bit of body to the sound. It is not quite a fit for me, but made me aware of another house sound.

@zlone I was looking for the remote for the Mjolnir (though I do not need one). No wonder I could not find it.

The Holo Serene may work for you. It is a bit warmer than the LA4 but has all the other sonic attributes of the LA4. 

The Mjolnir is a much better sounding unit than the Freya+. The Freya+ was a fun listen but would not have worked long term for me.

When one of my monoblocks (Monarchy  SM-70Pro) went out for repair, I used the single as stereo for a couple weeks and noticed quite a degraded change.  Upon return  of the second unit, it became apparent that having the monoblocks in place made everything tighten up; imagining, separation, detail... everything sounded organized and made me appreciate them together. 

Caveat, in monoblock configuration, I can also bi-wire and run balanced, to which could add to the elevated performance. 

To OP

There is an excellent review on Dogogo of the Benchmark AHB2 Monoblocks.  The reviewer really loved it.  If you get a chance, check it out it may remove all your doubt.