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Here we go again ... driving B&W N802s

I'm a music hound, but no audiophile. That said, I have read a lot here, and learned much from the forum threads. Thank you.

Starting a new system, based on Nautilus 802s. Next step is power, and it's time to consider specific models. It seems that, in no order, Krell and Plinius are most preferred, followed by Bryston, Jeff Rowland, and Pass/Threshold. I've learned bi-amping is best but not necessary, and if not bi-amping, then bi-wiring. And that at least 200 watts per speaker is required, and at least 300 preferred. Despite my many hours of reading, I must say I'm overwhelmed with the choices, but enjoying the process nonetheless.

So now I humbly subject myself to the collective Audiogon wisdom ... what used amp(s) and pre-amp do you recommend for a total buy of up to ROUGHLY $4,000?

Other details ... 300 sf room, plan to own equipment a long time, listen to symphonic, blues, jazz, and rock. And it would be nice to have phono input.
maxtiel
tlday
137 posts
 
Johnnysd,

Very interesting. I currently run the MF TriVista Integrated through N802s. It was no contest between the A308 and TriVista. I thought I was satisfied. Now you've peaked my interest in the Spectron. Thanks a lot.

Tom
maxtiel OP
1 posts
 
Not sure how to best do this, but just want to say thanks to all of you who've helped me in the next step of putting a new system together, enviably (or not viz my pursestrings!) from scratch.

First step was Nautilus 802s on closeout. With your help, I decided on and am purchasing a Classe CA 300. Next step now is a tube preamp, with phono stage, and am considering used BAT, ARC, and Conrad Johnson.

This is a great site, made so by the services it provides, the opportunity to buy and sell in a structured and helpful manner, and most of all for me, the oodles of people with knowledge and willingness to help.

larryrosen
83 posts
 
I have evloved to a Mcintosh 352 and it has opened up the 802's enormous potential. High Current. High power. Team this with a good tube pre-amp, and you will be very happy
psjulian
99 posts
 
I too have N802s purchased as close outs. I got a super deal. I am driving them with a Levinson #383 integrated. They sound just fine. But the dealer had Mac 501s driving them in wet-your-pants-bliss. I'm kissing up to the wife now. By the way Cardas Golden Referance on B&W N802s can't be beat. They bested (is that a word?) Valhallas on my system. YMMV. Peace and Good Listening, Pat.
fab4
4 posts
 
Even though the 802's are a moderately efficient speaker, you really need a ballsy amp to take advantage of their capabilities. I use Bryston 7BSST's, but the 4BSST will work as well. I'm bi-wiring with Kimber Monocle X on the top and a double run of 8TC on the bottom. Great amp/cable combo.
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