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Bob Carver 180 Mono-blocks perform superbly

Is anyone in the Audiogon community using the Bob Carver 180 mono-blocks? I just placed a new pair in my system and I am really amazed at their performance. I am using them with the PS Audio PWD/PWT, First Sound MK-III and Tyler Acoustics D1 speakers. The price to performance ratio is outstanding. The Bob Carver 180's are producing an extremely clean, clear and open sound-stage. I can safely say they will compete with mono-blocks costing much more.
thankful
dracule1
1,085 posts
 
My Cherry 180 is more transparent than my AtmaSphere M60 which is saying a lot, but my 180 has the vintage transformer and Vcap coupling caps with better binding posts, RCA connector, and captive PC cord that the standard 180s lack. It's all around best top 5 amps I've heard.
worldcat
160 posts
 
What is the sound difference in the 180 compared to 305's?
thankful OP
222 posts
 
Basically just the power rating. Very similar sonic signature according to to Bob and Tony. Not sure how much different beneath the hood.
rep4ever
15 posts
 
A slight correction would be Bob said "flea powered tube amplifiers" were not his cup of tea. The Silver Seven amplifiers he created at Carver were tubed but produced over 300 watts.
rep4ever
15 posts
 
Agreed. Dismissal of an amp because of negative feedback is a gross misunderstanding and overly simplistic understanding of circuit design as is dismissal of an amp due to transformers. OTL is a valid approach obviously, but at what cost? The sound into real speakers will tell the story and the ear will be the judge.
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